Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may appear brief, I’ve absorbed a wealth of experiences within it. London is an energetic city, presenting a diverse array of living options and lively neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of alternatives at their disposal, ranging from student residences to private housing that includes ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to navigate and travel between zones. To cut travel expenses, since inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than opt for the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, covering areas outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance and fare policies of each train operator. Living in Central London is expensive due to its iconic attractions, but by sharing a room with a friend who studies alongside me, we considerably lowered our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek ties to their home cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrations merely scratch the surface of community neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London rely heavily on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new abode in London, embrace the varied and rich housing offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.