Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem a brief time, the experiences have been substantial. London is a bustling metropolis, not only because of its ample housing alternatives but also due to its multifaceted communities. Students are presented with a myriad of choices. Both student residences and private lodgings offer various options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily set up viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse possible lodgings online, including amenities and public transport connections.
During my quest for housing, I prioritized renting a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city features six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas that are not part of the Underground system, extending to zones beyond central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare policy. Central London houses major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which considerably reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations as they allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age, a combination that is trickier to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during examination periods.
Choosing an area to live can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a connection to their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.