Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long period, I have gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its array of housing choices but also for its communities. Students can find numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals present various alternatives, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential accommodations online, showcasing amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my search for a place, my goal was to secure a room in Central London for easy access to prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can total up to £5.25 daily. Instead of using a bus or tube for short distances, I preferred walking. However, the availability of oyster card options has made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside central London. The fares for travel between zones on these services depend on the distance traveled and the fare regulations of each train operator. While Central London presents major attractions, living there can be quite expensive. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to share accommodation, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing for the opportunity to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural landscape, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End offers a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When searching for your new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.