Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. While this isn’t an extensive duration, I’ve gained considerable insights throughout this time. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a diverse range of housing possibilities and lively communities. Students enjoy many options, such as student residences and private rentals, including ensuite and suite-style bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, assess available facilities, and identify nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s public transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies travel and navigation across zones. I aimed to minimize my commuting costs, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, opting to walk shorter stretches instead of opting for the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made university travel more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services serve areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside Central London, with ticket prices varying based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend at university helped us cut down on rent significantly. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination trickier to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Familiar supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections with their home cultures within London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a small sample of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal regions for residing in London depend upon personal interests and requirements. While looking for a new place to call home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.