Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I’ve acquired considerable knowledge during this period. London presents a vibrant atmosphere, boasting a plethora of housing options and varied communities. Students are faced with abundant selections, such as student residences and private living spaces featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can explore platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine prospective lodgings online, review amenities, and gauge closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodations, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London is equipped with an outstanding transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel and navigation between zones straightforward. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Pricing for these services varies based on distance and the fare policies of each train provider. Central London, being home to major landmarks, leads to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I had a friend at university, and we opted to share a room, which significantly cut down our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less likely to be found in private residences.
Living close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London proves to be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural makeup, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new abode in London, relish the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.