Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month mark living in London. Although this may seem brief, I’ve acquired some valuable observations during this period. London is an energetic city, providing a diverse range of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations virtually, examine available amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city features an excellent transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Moreover, services like London Overground and National Rail go beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Central London is expensive due to its attractions, but sharing a room with a friend at university allowed us to significantly reduce our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is particularly convenient during exam times.
Choosing a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural diversity, creating a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, found in the West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the varied accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this remarkable city.