Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this period might seem brief, I have gained a wealth of experience. London is a dynamic metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of options available right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings present possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made university commuting more affordable. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services operate in areas beyond the Underground coverage, reaching zones outside the city center. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare regulations of each train provider. The presence of major attractions in Central London results in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared accommodation, significantly reducing our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been trickier with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby minimizes errand-related time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, offering a range of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek to find a sense of familiarity with their home culture in the city. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, boasts a multitude of Chinese dining establishments, retail shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, fully embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and charm this extraordinary city has to offer.