Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residence in London. Although this duration is relatively short, I have accumulated some valuable experiences. London is a dynamic city, presenting a wide variety of housing options and thriving communities. Students have numerous selections right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective living spaces online, including features and access to public transportation.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain in close proximity to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s outstanding transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for easy navigation and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting can reach up to £5.25 each day. I opted for walking shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made daily university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to locations outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance and specific fare policies of each train operating company. The high living expenses near major attractions in Central London necessitated careful planning. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably reduced our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often less accessible in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Picking a neighbourhood is not simple. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural essence, providing a rich variety of neighbourhoods. Most international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on your interests and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.