Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently marked nine months of residing in London. While this might not appear lengthy, the experiences I’ve gathered are substantial. London is a dynamic city that presents a broad range of housing options and lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices available, including student residences and private rentals featuring options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for a place to stay, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. To economize on travel expenses, I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on public transport, even though oyster card options have made commuting easier on the wallet. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high cost of living in Central London was alleviated by sharing a room with a friend, which drastically lowered rent expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to discover in private properties.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, offering a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End boasts numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of examples of community areas.
The optimal locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home, embrace London’s varied housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.