Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering

Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I have gained valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, providing various housing options and dynamic communities. Students face an array of choices right at their fingertips, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view potential living spaces online, verify amenities, and evaluate distances to public transport.

During my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s public transport system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes traveling and navigating between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach further than the Underground network, servicing regions beyond central London. Travel fares for inter-zone journeys differ, depending on distance and the fare policies of each train company. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly lessened our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, an opportunity rarer in private accommodations.

Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.

Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. The ethnic communities in London form a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a taste of familiarity from their home countries in the city. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is filled with a myriad of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of culturally rich neighborhoods.

The ideal living areas in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.

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