Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my ninth month in London. Although it’s not a lengthy period, I’ve picked up a few insights. London buzzes with activity, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of nearby choices, with both student residences and private lodgings providing alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom let international students browse potential accommodations online, review amenities, and assess distance to public transport.
In my hunt for a place to stay, I sought a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones could cost up to £5.25 daily, thus I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, extending into zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. Central London hosts significant attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I was at university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and achieve substantial rent savings. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was important to me. Frequent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural essence, providing a vibrant mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home country within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton stands out for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a dynamic hub filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.