Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months is not an extended period, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its diverse housing options but also for its rich mix of communities. Students have a wide array of selections available. Both student accommodations and private lodgings feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate nearness to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I intended to minimize my travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can run up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room and considerably reduce rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s more challenging to encounter in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of home within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best areas for living in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the accommodation options available, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.