Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered some valuable experiences along the way. London is a bustling metropolis, not just for its varied housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals present a range of selections, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective living spaces online, review amenities, and gauge their accessibility to public transportation.
During my search for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, the oyster card system has made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, resulting in significant rental savings. I favored intercollegiate student residences, looking to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines daily errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and depth of its accommodation offerings, investigate cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this unique city.