Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem long, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students enjoy a wealth of options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport routes.
During my quest for a residence, my priority was to find a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to major attractions, social centres, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses due to inter-zonal travel costs, which can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services span areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fare prices for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structures of individual train companies. The high living costs around Central London’s key attractions are evident. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from different backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that is more challenging to encounter in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are an integral part of its cultural tapestry, presenting diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students yearn for a sense of familiarity with their native culture while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London depend largely on individual preferences and requirements. To secure a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.