Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month mark of residing in London. While it may not seem like an extensive period, I have gained a wealth of experience. London is a dynamic city, known not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous alternatives right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings present choices such as ensuite bathrooms, suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective living spaces online, showcasing both amenities and access to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground to zones further out. Fares for inter-zone travels on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London features significant attractions, which results in higher living expenses. Luckily, I was able to attend university with a friend, and we mutually decided to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations for the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds of similar ages, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was a significant factor for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be daunting. The diverse ethnic communities of London are fundamental to its cultural identity, creating a tapestry of neighborhoods. Many international students desire connections to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian populace, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown situated in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.