Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it’s not a significant duration, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its variable housing possibilities but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have a wealth of selections readily available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, complete with facilities and proximity to public transport.
During my housing search, I aimed for a room in Central London, to be near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is sectioned into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies traversing the city and moving between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central districts. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure applied by each train operator. The presence of major attractions in Central London drives up living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which substantially reduced our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being near key establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural milieu, showcasing a range of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End presents a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When embarking on a search for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its lodging options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.