Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve acquired a significant amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, not just for its varied housing options but also due to its dynamic communities. Students enjoy a multitude of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals present alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, detailing the amenities available and their accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for a place, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground’s reach, encompassing zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance and fare structures of individual train operators. Central London hosts major attractions, leading to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a companion, and we opted to share a room, which greatly diminished our rent burden. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—this blend is more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, offering a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.