Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy period, I have gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis that presents a vast array of housing options and lively communities. Students can choose from various arrangements, including student residences and private housing, which feature ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, while those from abroad can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transportation.
During my hunt for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to maintain proximity to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most centralized. London’s transit system, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, simplifies traveling between zones. I aimed to cut down travel expenses, as inter-zone commuting can reach £5.25 per day, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. The Oyster card alternatives have made traveling to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, covering locations outside the central area. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the specific fare guidelines of each train operator. The cost of living in Central London can be steep due to its attractions, but sharing a room with a friend allowed us to save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to encounter peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, which can be more challenging in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, creating diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity in London. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the West End provides a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new living space, take advantage of London’s variety of accommodation options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.