Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve acquired valuable knowledge. London is a vibrant city with a multitude of housing choices and varied communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both dormitory-style living and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, evaluate facilities, and determine closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, entertainment spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six layered zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s remarkable transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, supports effortless navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenditures since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail routes expand beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these lines depend on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly lessened rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from different backgrounds and similar age groups, something less common in private residences.
Living close to grocery outlets was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on shopping, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of living arrangements, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.