Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this period may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired valuable perspectives during this time. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a broad spectrum of housing options and lively neighborhoods. Students enjoy an abundance of choices available to them. Both university dormitories and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite baths, communal and individual rooms, studio spaces, and shared homes. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to examine potential living arrangements online, evaluate facilities, and consider proximity to public transport.
In my search for a place to stay, I aimed for accommodations in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for seamless navigation and travel between zones. To minimize transportation expenses, which can accumulate to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing 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 beyond the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major sites in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while at university helped significantly lower rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s often rare in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural richness, offering a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is an animated area filled with countless Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal residential areas in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to reside in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.