Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Even though it’s a brief period, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering not only a wide array of living arrangements but also rich community experiences. Students have numerous options available right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private 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 prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
While searching for housing, I desired a room in Central London to be close to primary attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize traveling expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made getting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, making it a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiar surroundings in London. Southall, located in West London, features a prominent South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. While seeking a new home in London, embrace the array and richness of its accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.