Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve absorbed a considerable amount during this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not just for its myriad accommodation choices but also for its bustling communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private residences offer a variety of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private lodging, studio apartments, and communal living. Domestic students have no trouble arranging apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to assess potential homes online, review available amenities, and identify the closest public transit options.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay near key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it effortless to explore and traverse between the zones. I wished to cut down on travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to stroll short distances rather than use a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have significantly lowered the cost of commuting to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand coverage beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operating company’s fare system. Central London presents numerous major attractions, which contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we decided to share accommodation, greatly minimizing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student residences, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s harder to achieve in private accommodations.
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a challenging choice. London’s diverse ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of neighbourhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their native culture. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.