Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive duration, I have gathered some perspectives. London is an energetic city, not only for its extensive selection of living arrangements but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a multitude of options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals offer a variety of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective lodgings online, including available amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I specifically sought a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, vibrant social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding public transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal transit can cost up to £5.25 daily. I preferred walking shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to higher living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations for the opportunity to meet students from different backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is harder to find in private properties.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home culture. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.