Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy period, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London stands out as a dynamic metropolis, providing an array of living arrangements and lively communities. Students can explore numerous options readily available, such as student housing and private rentals encompassing amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transit.
In my accommodation hunt, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones representing the most central areas. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, offers seamless mobility between zones. I aimed to lower my travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 each day, thus choosing to walk short distances over relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones that lie outside central London. The pricing for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuates based on distance and each train company’s fare policies. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly diminishing our rent obligations. I favored intercollegiate housing to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies reduces time spent on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of connection to their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples barely scratch the surface of the community neighborhoods available.
The ideal places to reside in London ultimately hinge on personal interests and requirements. When embarking on the journey to find a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and vibrancy of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city provides.