Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this timeframe may appear short, I’ve gathered valuable experiences during this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting an extensive range of housing opportunities and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options at their fingertips, ranging from student accommodations to private lodgings, including ensuite and suite arrangements, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students have the option to research potential housing online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, evaluating amenities and distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport infrastructure, including the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates smooth navigation and travel between zones. To keep travel expenses down, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, serving areas outside of central London, with prices varying by distance and train company tariff structures. The high living expenses in Central London can be alleviated by sharing a room with a friend, significantly lowering rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been harder with private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more affordable choices. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a challenging choice. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a key part of its cultural identity, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of connection to their home cultures in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The finest places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. While looking for a new place to call home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.