Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve gathered some perspectives during this time. Although nine months may seem brief, this city buzzes with energy, presenting a myriad of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Students find various options readily available, including both student residences and private accommodations that feature ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, detailing amenities and distances to public transport.
Throughout my quest for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key sites, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. London is compartmentalized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core areas. The city boasts an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel across these zones. I aimed to minimize transportation expenditures because inter-zonal fares can reach as high as £5.25 daily; thus, I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to steep living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, an experience that would have been more difficult in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly convenient during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its own set of challenges. The city’s diverse communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, contributing to a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for elements of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean demographics and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, retail outlets, and cultural festivities. These are just a selection of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new place to call home in London, appreciate the city’s diversity and wealth of housing opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.