Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might not seem lengthy, I’ve gained a substantial amount of insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not just for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students find a plethora of choices available to them. Both university accommodation and privately rented spaces offer facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students are able to effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective living spaces online, examine the available amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for living arrangements, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transportation network is exceptional, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to traverse and move between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced the cost of university travels. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, extending into zones outside the city center. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to the distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share accommodations, significantly cutting our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to meet peers from various backgrounds and around the same age, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, providing a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for connections to their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music culture. Chinatown situated in the center of London’s West End features a variety of Chinese dining options, retailers, and cultural events. These examples showcase some of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on individual interests and needs. When looking for a place to call home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.