Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this period may be brief, I have gained substantial insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its eclectic housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with a myriad of choices right at their fingertips. Student lodgings and private residences provide a range of alternatives including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective living arrangements online, showcasing amenities and accessibility to public transportation.
In my search for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to stay close to principal landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel fees can reach up to £5.25 each day. Instead of utilizing a bus or tube for short distances, I opted to walk. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services vary based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to meet peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential facilities such as grocery stores and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing diverse areas of residence. Numerous international students seek familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is filled with a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are influenced by personal interests and requirements. As you pursue a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.