Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t extensive, my experiences have been numerous. London thrives as a lively metropolis, characterized not only by its eclectic housing choices but also by its communities. Students enjoy various options available right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide various amenities including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom facilitate international students in viewing potential accommodations online, assessing amenities, and finding public transport links.
While seeking accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigating and traveling across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily. Whenever feasible, I opted to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary by distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses significant attractions, leading to increased living expenses. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend, which considerably reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals of diverse backgrounds and similar age, a blend that’s more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was imperative for me. Common retail chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a semblance of their home culture within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and musical atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, showcases Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These examples exemplify community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, embrace its diversity and abundance of housing alternatives, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.