Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained some insights. London is an energetic city, notable not only for its range of housing alternatives but also for its varied communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their front door. Both student residences and private lodgings provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, as well as shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future living spaces online, evaluate amenities, and locate nearby public transportation options.
While searching for accommodation, I aspired to find a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London boasts an outstanding public transport system that includes the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card choices have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services encompass regions beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses significant attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and considerably decrease our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age, which is a combination tougher to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, creating varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, presents a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.