Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a bustling metropolis, offering a broad range of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students are presented with various options, including student residences and private housing featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, verify amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London for proximity to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s outstanding transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To cut travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London, with fares differing according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Residing in Central London can be costly due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended the university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging to accomplish with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is not easy. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.