Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I hit the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gleaned insights during this timeframe. London is an energetic metropolis, not merely for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students have a wealth of options readily available. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view potential homes online, assess the amenities, and determine proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a place to reside, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, which raises living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, leading us to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time when managing errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland within this city. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Nestled in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown serves as a colorful enclave with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. To locate a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and indulge in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.