Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering not only a variety of accommodation options but also rich communities. Students have a plethora of choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future living spaces online, complete with amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to live, my preference was for a room in Central London, ensuring I was near significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. My goal was to keep travel expenses at bay since inter-zonal journeys can reach £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Pricing for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates depending on distance and the unique fare structures of individual train operators. Central London is home to major attractions, contributing to higher living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly decreasing our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a range of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is replete with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of London’s housing offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.