Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked the completion of nine months living in London. While it may appear brief, I’ve acquired various insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a multitude of lodging choices and vibrant neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of options available, including student residencies and private lodgings featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore prospective accommodations online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel and navigation between zones. To economize on transport expenses, since inter-zonal fares can escalate to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations in order to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse communities are an essential facet of its cultural fabric, showcasing a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of connection to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London largely depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.