Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not be an extended period, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic metropolis, not just for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous selections right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing offer a variety of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring their prospective housing online, along with the amenities and accessibility to public transit.
During my quest for housing, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric rings, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s remarkable transportation infrastructure, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can escalate to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to areas outside central London, with fares varying based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The living costs in Central London are elevated due to its primary attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common retailers consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is not easy. London’s ethnic communities constitute a crucial aspect of its cultural landscape, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of comfort reminiscent of their home country in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. In the process of seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.