Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I have gleaned several insights. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, not only in terms of its wide range of housing options but also due to its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of selections available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, verify amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal transit can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside Central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance traveled and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I started university alongside a friend, and we made the choice to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from a range of backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s diverse communities are essential to its cultural heritage, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music landscape. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area featuring countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable locations to live in London rely on personal interests and needs. While on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.