Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have absorbed quite a lot from my experience. London buzzes with energy, not only due to its varied living arrangements but also its dynamic neighborhoods. Students have plenty of opportunities available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Resident students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential residences online, showcasing the features offered and the accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to major sights, community hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones representing the core. London’s transport network, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies traversing the city and moving between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses minimal since moving between zones could cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to stroll short distances rather than rely on a bus or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have reduced the costs of commuting to the university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend their reach beyond the Underground, encompassing regions outside the heart of London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high costs of living in Central London stem from its major attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, providing considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from various backgrounds and the same age range, a combination that is harder to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery shops was important to me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to necessary stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on chores, especially during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s multicultural communities form an essential part of its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a few community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most appealing places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. As you search for a new dwelling in London, immerse yourself in the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.