Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered some perspectives along the way. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized by its varied living arrangements and lively communities. Students are presented with abundant options. Both student residences and private housing showcase a range of possibilities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, featuring the supplied amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has a remarkable transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network into areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Living costs in Central London are high due to its array of major attractions. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which led to substantial rent savings. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds who are in the same age group, a blend that would have been tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near basic stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting an area to reside in presents its challenges. The ethnic communities of London are crucial to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London look for a sense of familiarity from their home nations. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Situated in the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling enclave filled with a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
Choosing the ideal areas to live in London hinges on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodations in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.