Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem like a lengthy period, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic city, presenting a broad array of housing options and varied communities. Students have numerous alternatives, ranging from student residences to private housing, encompassing ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, examine amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Oyster card options have further reduced commuting costs for university students. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to areas outside the central zones, with fares varying depending on distance and the fare structures of various train companies. The high cost of living near Central London’s key attractions can be daunting. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and of similar ages, an interaction that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living in proximity to supermarkets was essential for me. Notable supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland available. Being near essential stores such as grocery shops and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural identity, presenting a wide range of neighborhoods. Many international students seek familiarities from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, serves as a bustling enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of the culturally rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.