Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this isn’t an extensive period, I have acquired significant knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting an array of housing choices and a variety of communities. Students have numerous options available, such as student residences and private housing featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can explore possibilities online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view potential lodgings, evaluate amenities, and discover nearby public transport options.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day, so I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Ticket prices for these services vary according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London drive up living expenses, but sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting an assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a semblance of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, relish the diversity and richness of its accommodation alternatives, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.