Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period may seem short, I’ve gained several insights. London is an energetic city, presenting a wide array of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have plenty of alternatives at their fingertips, including student residences and private accommodations featuring amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, examine facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London boasts a superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making traversing the city and commuting between zones simple. To cut down on travel costs, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made journeys to the university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London, with fares differing based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to high living costs, but by sharing a room with a friend, I greatly lowered my rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging to achieve with privately rented properties.
Living close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are a quintessential part of its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a taste of their home country in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.