Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I have gathered some reflections. London is a vibrant city, not only for its assortment of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have a plethora of selections available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment visits, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, detailing their amenities and proximity to public transport.
During my quest for living arrangements, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near main attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London lead to high living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly lowering the rent. I favored intercollegiate housing arrangements to connect with students from a range of backgrounds and age demographics, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic groups are crucial to its cultural richness, providing a diverse range of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for familiarity with their native countries. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is an energetic locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The prime locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new dwelling in London, embrace the city’s varied accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this remarkable city.