Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t an extensive period, I’ve gained substantial knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not just for its varied housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students encounter numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview potential accommodations online, highlighting amenities and distance to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as cross-zone journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more affordable. Moreover, 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 each company’s fare structure. The notable attractions in Central London contribute to high living costs. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in proves to be a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, showcases a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight just a fraction of the community neighborhoods.
The prime locations to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and necessities. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.