Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not appear extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide array of housing choices but also by its varied communities. Students enjoy countless options at their fingertips. Both university housing and private lodgings provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including the amenities provided and their accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure set by each train service. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I shared the university experience with a friend, and we decided to cohabit, leading to substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural mosaic, each providing unique neighborhoods. Many international students seek a taste from home within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean associations and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation types, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city offers.