Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have gained extensive insights. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its wide-ranging housing alternatives but also by its lively communities. Students find themselves with numerous options available. Both student residences and private housing provide an array of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, verify amenities, and locate the nearest public transport connections.
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the core. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk over short distances instead of taking public transport. However, oyster card options have enhanced affordability for university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground system, covering zones outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is packed with major attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which led to considerable savings on rent. I was inclined towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. The most common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their native cultures. Southall in West London features a robust South Asian community showcasing Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music environment. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on your interests and preferences. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savour the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.