Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t particularly lengthy, I’ve gathered several observations. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a multitude of housing options and lively communities. Students can choose from various accommodations, including student residences and private housing featuring options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can investigate potential lodging online through websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, which also include information regarding amenities and accessibility to public transportation.
During my quest for housing, I targeted a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing easy travel and navigation between zones. Personally, I opted to walk short distances to cut down on transportation expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 per day. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Fares for these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London stem from its prominent attractions. Luckily, a friend of mine enrolled at the same university, enabling us to share a room and greatly lower our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a difficult choice. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, positioned in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable living areas in London are based on individual preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.