Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, it has been nine months since I relocated to London. While this may not be an extended period, I’ve gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its diverse housing choices but also because of the various communities residing here. Students enjoy numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private living spaces offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange for apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective lodgings online, review available facilities, and locate the nearest public transportation connections.
During my quest for housing, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel among zones. I focused on minimizing transportation expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare schedule. The high living costs in Central London’s attractions are significant. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and my age group, a combination that is often more challenging to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a significant choice. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music landscape. Chinatown located in the core of London’s West End is a bustling enclave filled with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing selections, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.