Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months living in London. Though this period may seem brief, I’ve gained some insights. London is a dynamic city, thriving not only because of its variety of housing but also its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both university accommodation and private housing cater to needs with choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and communal living arrangements. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, showcasing amenities and access to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to stay near main attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city consists of six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies getting around and traveling between zones. I aimed to minimize commuting expenses, as traveling between zones can reach £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. Plus, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare policy. Central London is home to major attractions, making living expenses higher. Luckily, I enrolled in university with a friend, prompting us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand running, especially during exam periods.
Picking a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for a taste of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End offers a plethora of Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of housing choices, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.