Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago marked my nine months of residing in London. While nine months might not appear lengthy, I’ve gained considerable knowledge in that span. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing supply options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students living at home can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, along with available amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for accommodations, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near significant landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London prides itself on an outstanding transportation network that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel among zones straightforward. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure of the individual train operating company. The costs of living near Central London’s major attractions can be quite steep. Luckily, I shared university housing with a friend, which greatly alleviated our rent burden. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a balance that is more challenging to find in private properties.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Familiar supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are common, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops, including supermarkets and pharmacies, saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. London’s cultural communities are a key part of its social tapestry, showcasing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a connection to their homeland. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Nestled in the center of London’s West End, Chinatown presents a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London largely depend on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and immerse yourself in the convenience and excitement that this remarkable city offers.