Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the milestone of nine months in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, offering not only a variety of housing options but also dynamic communities. Students have numerous choices readily available. Both student accommodations and private housing provide an array of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and locate the closest public transport links.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to lease a room in Central London for easy access to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating seamless navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize my travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university significantly more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, since I was attending university with a friend, we opted to share a room, which substantially reduced our rental expenses. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and the same age group, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to inhabit is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home nations. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population and features Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.