Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear lengthy, I have acquired some understanding in this period. London is a vibrant city, providing a broad range of housing alternatives and varied communities. Students possess numerous options, from student accommodations to private housing, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly book apartment tours, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for a living space, I aspired to lease a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. To economize on travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal trips, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London, with fares varying based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The living expenses in Central London due to its major attractions are high. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, significantly lowering the rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from different backgrounds and age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural essence, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. While on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace its diverse and rich housing combinations, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.