Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, I’ve garnered some perspectives. London is an energetic city, offering a vast selection of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them, including student residences and private housing with alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can search for prospective accommodations online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, examining amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London features an outstanding transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling smooth navigation and movement between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 each day, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, which greatly diminished rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to discover in private accommodations.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural scene, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.