Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. Although it may not seem like a long duration, I have gained considerable insights. London is dynamic, showcasing not only its varied housing options but also its vibrant communities. Students can select from a variety of accommodations, including student residences and private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to review potential housing options online, evaluate amenities, and gauge their distance from public transport links.
In my quest for housing, my objective was to find a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core. London boasts an outstanding transport system, integrating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation across the city and between various zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. Instead of utilizing a bus or tube for short trips, I chose to walk. Nevertheless, options like the oyster card have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground reach, connecting to zones outside Central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by the proximity to major attractions. Fortunately, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly reducing our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural identity, providing a rich blend of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a slice of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a prominent South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. In the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown offers an array of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples illustrate just a few of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are influenced by your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, take advantage of its diverse accommodation choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.