Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gathered several reflections during this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its extensive accommodation choices but also for its varied communities. Students have numerous options right at their homes. Both student residences and private lodgings present various possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private sleeping quarters, studio flats, and house sharings. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, verify available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel across and between zones. I wished to minimize commuting costs since inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services service regions beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare policies. Central London houses significant landmarks, which contributes to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, substantially reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and of a similar age, a combination that would have been trickier to find in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shopping venues like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to settle in is a daunting task. London’s ethnic populations are a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a colorful array of distinct neighborhoods. Most international learners in London search for a sense of familiarity akin to their homeland within this city. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian demographic with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave featuring numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to stay in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. While hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation possibilities, discover cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.