Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, I’ve gathered valuable experiences. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present arrangements such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential rentals online, examine the amenities, and verify closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to lease a room in Central London to remain in proximity to significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses down since commuting between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made university travels less expensive. Besides, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operation. The notable attractions of central London contribute to increased living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London seek a connection to their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian presence with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The finest locales to reside in London are influenced by personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing possibilities, discover cultural hubs, and appreciate the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.