Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, it has been nine months since I relocated to London. Although this may seem like a short period, I have gained significant insights. London is an energetic city, celebrated not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options at their fingertips, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment visits, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective lodgings online, check for available amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 each day, hence I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize public transport. Oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts numerous major attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would be more challenging with privately-owned properties.
Living close to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland available. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on shopping trips, especially during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community with an abundance of Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, features numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are just a handful of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for new housing in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural hotspots, and relish in the convenience and excitement this remarkable city offers.