Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months residing in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I have gained significant insights. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a plethora of living arrangements and lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, complete with details on amenities and transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, including the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, with ticket prices varying based on distance and train operator. The high living costs in Central London are offset by sharing a room with a friend, which helped reduce rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar generations, a combination less commonly found in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s multicultural communities are fundamental to its identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiar environments in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean demographics and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End features Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These illustrate just a few community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to inhabit in London are dictated by personal preferences and necessities. In the hunt for a home, appreciate London’s varied accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the city’s convenience and vibrancy.