Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it’s not an extended period, I’ve accumulated some valuable experiences along the way. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing possibilities and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can seamlessly arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, vibrant social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation network is exceptional, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses, considering that inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made travelling to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London also contribute to higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during busy exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite the challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural makeup, providing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of the vibrant community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing selections, dive into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.