Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I achieved the milestone of nine months living in London. Though this duration might not appear extensive, I have gathered valuable experiences along the way. London is an energetic city, providing a plethora of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both student residences and private housing offer various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, examine available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain near major sites, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation infrastructure, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes moving between zones straightforward. To cut down on travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing model of each train operator. The major attractions of Central London add to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, greatly easing rental costs. I preferred engaging in intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is often more challenging to encounter in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on chores, particularly during exam seasons.
Picking a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s diverse communities play a crucial role in shaping its cultural scene, offering a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, features a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. In the quest for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of available accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this exceptional city.