Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
As of late, I have completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem lengthy, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant city, distinguished not only by its varied housing choices but also by its communities. Students have a plethora of options available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, along with amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my search for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to undertake short walks instead of hopping on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London boasts significant attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and substantially reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home nations while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. In the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is home to an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are influenced by your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.