Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have acquired considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its numerous communities. Students enjoy a wealth of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing present an array of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can quickly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their forthcoming accommodations online, verify amenities, and locate the nearest public transport connections.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since commuting between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. Instead of relying on buses or the tube, I opted to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made traveling to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing models of individual train operators. Central London features significant attractions, which contributes to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, substantially lowering our rental expenses. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often difficult to locate in private properties.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural ethos, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. A large number of international students in London seek a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its living choices, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.