Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis that provides an extensive array of living options and varied communities. Students have numerous alternatives, ranging from student residences to private rentals, with features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings of apartments, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to assess prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and identify accessible public transport routes.
During my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates movement and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zone travel can amount to £5.25 each day, I chose to walk shorter journeys instead of resorting to the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Residing in Central London can be expensive, but sharing a room with a friend allowed us to considerably reduce our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age tiers, which is more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
Proximity to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing diverse living areas. Numerous international students seek the familiarity of their home cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional outfit shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End features a plethora of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new abode, welcome the diversity and richness of London’s housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this remarkable city.