Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months residing in London. Although it may not appear lengthy, I’ve gained extensive knowledge throughout this period. London is a vibrant city, providing a variety of housing options and eclectic communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices, which include student residences and private lodgings with amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transit.
In my quest for a living space, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near key sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most centrally located. The city’s outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can reach up to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal trips, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zone, with fare prices differing based on distance and train company pricing structures. The high demand for Central London’s major attractions contributes to elevated living costs, but sharing a room with a friend has significantly reduced our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more difficult to achieve with private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural tapestry, presenting varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek out familiarities from their home nations in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking your new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its lodging options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city provides.