Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing a vast array of housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students can find multiple options available, such as student residences and private lodgings featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently book apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay close to major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an excellent transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system to outer zones, with fares differing according to distance and train company pricing structures. Central London’s prominent attractions lead to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is a mixture that’s harder to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam sessions.
Selecting a neighborhood proves to be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, creating a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a connection to their homelands in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End presents numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and needs. When looking for a new place in London, take advantage of the diverse housing selections, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.