Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this period may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its diverse housing options but also for its rich array of communities. Students have abundant choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer a range of features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the heart of it all. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as traveling between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 each day. I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside central London. Fare prices for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of individual train operators. The high living costs near Central London’s major attractions can be a challenge. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, substantially reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Residing close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural fabric, presenting various neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.