Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not be an extensive duration, I’ve acquired a fair amount of knowledge. London pulses with life, not only due to its varied housing choices but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both dormitory housing and private lodgings provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their prospective residences online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London, aiming to remain in proximity to key landmarks, lively spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I decided to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I had a university friend join me, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s harder to find in private lodgings.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite challenging. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity in London that reflects their home country. Southall in West London boasts a prominent South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling district filled with Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These examples illustrate just a few of the vibrant community areas.
The ideal locations for living in London hinge on your personal interests and necessities. When embarking on your quest for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city offers.