Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months since relocating to London. Although this may not seem like a lengthy period, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its vibrant communities. Students find themselves with numerous alternatives right at their fingertips. Both university-provided and private housing present a range of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living arrangements online, review amenities, and consider distances to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and movement between zones. Personally, I aimed to decrease travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services access areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services depend on the distance and each train operator’s fare policies. Central London is home to major attractions, which contributes to high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s 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 economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being situated near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite daunting. The ethnic communities of London form an integral part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse areas. Many international students in London crave connections to their home culture. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with various Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples illustrate just a fraction of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London ultimately hinge on your personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on a search for your new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.