Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While nine months may seem brief, I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge in this period. London is a vibrant city, renowned not only for its extensive variety of housing alternatives but also for the multicultural communities that inhabit it. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future living spaces online, review the facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London’s remarkable transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar age groups, which might have been challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex choice. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, providing a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community filled with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling neighborhood with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrative examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London greatly depend on your interests and requirements. In order to discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.