Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my ninth month of residing in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve acquired a few observations along the way. London is a vibrant city, not only regarding its varied housing options but also its communities. Students have a wide array of selections available to them. Both dormitory-style living and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and gauge transportation accessibility.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to key sites, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six layered zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can incur up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made daily journeys to the university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, considerably reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination months.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural richness, showcasing a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Most international students in London look for the comforts of their homeland. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, vibrates with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples representing community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal tastes and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and richness present in its housing options, delve into cultural pockets, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.