Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the milestone of nine months living in London. Though nine months may not seem like a lengthy period, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a lively place, known not just for its varied housing options but also for its numerous communities. Students have a multitude of nearby choices. Both student residences and private rentals present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 daily. Instead of using the bus or tube, I opted to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing policy. Central London houses significant attractions, which results in higher living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more difficult to encounter in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel outlets. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End is home to numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.