Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Though this may seem brief, I’ve gained valuable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, known not only for its varied housing selections but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private lodging provide options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential homes online, complete with details on amenities and distance to public transportation.
In my quest for a new home, I focused on securing a room in Central London to be close to essential attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as crossing zones can tally up to £5.25 each day, so I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. The Oyster card options have lowered commuting costs to university. Meanwhile, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside of the Underground network, reaching zones further from central London. Inter-zone travel fares depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The living expenses near Central London’s prominent attractions tend to be elevated. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, leading to noteworthy savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is a mix that is less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for my convenience. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural identity, resulting in rich and diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a semblance of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is packed with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London are dictated by your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.