Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the nine-month mark of my stay in London. Though this duration may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of experience. The vibrancy of London stems not only from its varied housing options but also from its diverse communities. Students have an abundance of choices, ranging from student housing to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while those from abroad can access platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare policies of each train company. Central London is home to numerous major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more elusive in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a range of diverse neighbourhoods. A multitude of international students seeks a slice of familiarity from their home nations while in London. Southall, located in West London, is well-known for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is recognized for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a hub of numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These exemplify just a fraction of the community-focused neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. As you look for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and abundance of its accommodation options, explore the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrills of this extraordinary city.