Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not seem significant, I have absorbed various insights. London is a dynamic city, recognized not only for its multitude of housing options but also for its energetic communities. Students have an abundance of choices, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, incorporating ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, assess amenities, and locate public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 per day, prompting me to opt for walking short distances instead of utilizing public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced university commute costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to outer zones, with fares differing based on distance and train operator fare rules. The high living expenses near Central London’s main attractions are notable. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we shared a room, leading to significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students desire a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End presents an array of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new place to live, recognize the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.