Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it might appear brief, I have gathered several observations throughout this period. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its varied living options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of choices readily available. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, verify the facilities, and locate nearby public transport services.
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 per day. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nonetheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones away from central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we decided to cohabit, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and a similar age group, a mix less common in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near grocery stores and pharmacies saves valuable time for running errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, presents a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable living areas in London largely rely on your interests and requirements. When searching for a residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.