Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insight. London is a dynamic metropolis, recognized for its varied living arrangements and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize property viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, along with their features and accessibility to public transportation.
In my pursuit of accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb public transport network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, covering regions outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on the distance traveled and the fare structures of each train provider. Central London presents major attractions, contributing to higher living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which led to substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, something that would be more challenging through private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse communities are integral to its cultural identity, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in London’s West End features a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.