Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. While this may not be a long duration, I have gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic city, known not only for its wide range of housing opportunities but also for its multicultural populations. Students can choose from a variety of options. Both student accommodations and private lodgings offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore online their potential future homes, along with the amenities available and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for a place to live, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant sites, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows easy movement and transit between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys could cost up to £5.25 per day. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground to areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare schedules of each train provider. Central London features major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share accommodations and substantially reduce rent. I preferred shared student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is more challenging to find within private rentals.
Being close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby reduces time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students pursue a sense of familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with an array of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most desirable areas to reside in London depend on personal tastes and requirements. When looking for a new place to live in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of available accommodations, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.