Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though nine months may seem brief, I’ve accumulated a wealth of knowledge. London boasts a dynamic atmosphere, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by its lively communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student residences and private rental properties provide myriad selections, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, individual and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, review available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes for seamless movement across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones can incur daily costs up to £5.25. I decided to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card choices have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. The prominent tourist attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, my experience of attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations to mingle with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, complemented by budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as grocers and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich blend of diverse areas. Numerous international students look for elements that remind them of their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled within London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples illustrate just a fraction of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locales to reside in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. To discover a new living space in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this exceptional city offers.