Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a range of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices, from university residences to private lodgings, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover public transport connections.
During my search for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central ones. London’s exceptional transport network, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and commuting between zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, serving areas outside central London, with fares fluctuating based on distance and the pricing structures of different train companies. The presence of major attractions in Central London contributes to high living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is not an easy task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek to find a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London boasts a strong Afro-Caribbean presence and a lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is home to an array of Chinese restaurants, retail shops, and cultural events. These are just a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and richness of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.