Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it’s a brief period, I have absorbed a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an eclectic array of housing options and lively communities. Students have numerous choices available, from student residences to private lodgings, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes online, assess amenities, and identify nearby public transport connections.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six zones, with the first two being the most centrally located. London’s transport network, which includes the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To economize on travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, servicing regions outside central London, with ticket prices differing according to distance and the respective rail company’s pricing policies. Residing in Central London comes at a premium, but by sharing a room with a friend, I managed to greatly lower my rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural identity, providing diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiar cultural settings. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population with plenty of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and music scene. Chinatown in the West End features a wealth of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural celebrations. These are illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a home in London, take advantage of the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.