Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I have garnered several insights during this period. London is a vibrant city, distinguished not only by its varied housing options but also by its communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, assess amenities, and identify nearby public transport options.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips could amount to £5.25 a day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card offerings have made commuting for university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing scheme. Central London showcases prominent attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, greatly reducing our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek to find a sense of home in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian presence with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London hinge upon your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.