Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gained quite a bit of insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore potential accommodations digitally, alongside amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating smooth movement and commutes across zones. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made traveling to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services change based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London hosts a wealth of major attractions, contributing to increased living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age brackets, something that would be more challenging through private options.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite daunting. London’s ethnic communities play an integral role in its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is home to many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new living space, embrace the diversity and richness present in London’s accommodation landscape, explore cultural enclaves, and fully experience the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.