Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable knowledge during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not only for its wide array of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have countless alternatives available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house share arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, assess facilities, and determine their closeness to public transit.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London in order to be near major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made traveling to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground system, reaching areas beyond central London, with prices dependent on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its popular attractions. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples illustrate just a few of the vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diverse accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.