Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long period, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, providing an extensive range of housing options and dynamic communities. Students can choose from various alternatives, including student residences and private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house sharings. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, evaluate facilities, and locate nearby public transportation options.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize my commuting expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk short distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare rates. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living costs. Luckily, I was enrolled in university with a friend, and we shared a room, which allowed us to save significantly on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a semblance of their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown at the center of London’s West End boasts numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new residence, embrace the variety and richness of London’s housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.