Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of my residency in London. While this timeframe may not seem extensive, I’ve accumulated some valuable knowledge throughout my stay. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its lively neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present diverse alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, showcasing the amenities provided and their proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superior transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies moving throughout and across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 a day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, covering areas outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prime attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I was able to attend university with a friend, and we chose to rent a room together, which significantly lowered rent expenditures. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that’s harder to find in privately rented accommodations.
Living close to supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural essence, providing a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homelands while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the rich diversity and abundance of housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.