Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, it marked the completion of nine months since I relocated to London. While this timeframe may not be extensive, I have gained a wealth of knowledge in that duration. London is a dynamic city, not just for its variety of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide an array of options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible housing online, assess amenities, and discover local public transport connections.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centres, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, servicing zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare model of each train provider. Living expenses in Central London’s key attractions are notably high. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to discover in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Access to crucial shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves significant time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are an integral aspect of its cultural tapestry, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a taste of home in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London hinge on 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 thrill of this extraordinary city.