Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I accomplished nine months of residing in London. While it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained considerable insights. London pulsates with life, not only due to its varied housing selections but also its communities. Students are presented with numerous options. Both student accommodation and private housing present choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, assess facilities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my hunt for a place, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground, buses, and trains, simplifies getting around the city. I aimed to minimize transportation expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and the fare structure of each rail company. Major attractions in Central London result in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a mix that’s harder to find in private residences.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a daunting task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.