Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gleaned various lessons. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing a plethora of housing choices and energetic communities. Students have numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodging offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house-sharing arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to explore potential housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodations, I searched for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is compartmentalized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London’s transportation infrastructure, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can climb to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend at university significantly lessened our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to meet individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is tougher to discover in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time during errands, particularly in exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural identity, presenting various neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a considerable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, boasts a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.