Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone living in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired valuable observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also its lively communities. Students possess an array of choices. Both student residences and private accommodations provide different formats such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared rooms and private spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their upcoming living spaces online, including amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating smooth navigation and inter-zonal travel. I sought to minimize transportation expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made daily commutes to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the tube network, covering areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare policy of each railway operator. Central London attracts many significant sites, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was accompanied by a friend in university, and we resolved to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Commonly available supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, expedites errand running, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in presents a challenge. London’s diverse ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. The majority of international students in London seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the West End of London, serves as a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify a few community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and needs. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of housing options, venture into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.