Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently celebrated the nine-month mark of residing in London. While this isn’t an extended duration, I’ve acquired several perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide-ranging housing selections but also because of its multitude of communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective accommodations online, verify available features, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my search for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to be close to popular attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is sectioned into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an impressive public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones straightforward. I sought to reduce travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fare prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of various train operators. The numerous attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End presents a wealth of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are influenced by personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.