Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months living in London. Although it’s not a lengthy timeframe, I’ve derived some knowledge from my experience. London is an energetic city that presents an extensive range of housing opportunities and lively neighborhoods. Students have a broad spectrum of options available. Both student residences and private accommodations feature alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential living arrangements online, review available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my endeavor to find a residence, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain near key sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I was able to attend university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more difficult to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be challenging. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a connection to their home countries. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London depend on personal interests and preferences. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.