Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it is not a lengthy time frame, I have gained various perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing options and lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective living spaces online, along with amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to prominent attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an impressive transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and inter-zone travel straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. Instead of utilizing buses or the tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone journeys differ according to distance and the pricing system of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student residencies, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a mix that is often harder to encounter in private accommodations.
It was essential for me to live near grocery outlets. Popular supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homelands in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a dynamic area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.