Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residence in London. While this duration may not seem long, it has allowed me to gather some observations. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a vast range of housing choices and dynamic neighborhoods. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing offer various formats, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, along with their features and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport system comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel and inter-zone commuting a breeze. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk small distances instead of opting for the bus or tube. However, oyster card alternatives have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel fluctuate according to distance and the specific fare structures of different train companies. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which led to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to encounter peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages, a combination more difficult to secure in private housing.
Having grocery stores in close proximity was essential for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shopping like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during testing periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek comfort from their home countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, features a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These instances represent just a glimpse of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on the journey to find a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.