Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, attributed not only to its wide array of housing possibilities but also its multicultural populace. Students find an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student lodgings and private rentals include choices such as ensuite and suite restrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and home shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, featuring amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my objective was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with the first two being the most central. London showcases a remarkable transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, easing the journey throughout the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as transit between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted for walking shorter distances over utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone commutes on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing framework of each train operator. The living expenses in Central London are elevated, owing to the availability of prominent attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, thereby significantly lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living close to grocery outlets was imperative for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy feat. London’s ethnic populations are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of diverse areas. Numerous international students seek comfort reminiscent of their home nations in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is an animated enclave filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.