Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration isn’t extensive, my experiences have been significant. London pulsates with life, providing a myriad of housing options and vibrant communities. Students can select from a range of accommodations, including student residences and private housing featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, assess facilities, and evaluate their distance from public transportation.
During my quest for housing, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures smooth mobility and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can accumulate to £5.25 daily, I decided to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to the university more cost-effective. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground system to outer zones, with fares dependent on the distance and pricing structures of the train companies. Despite the high living costs due to Central London’s major attractions, sharing a room with a friend has allowed us to save considerably on rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to discover in private housing.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as mere illustrations of the neighborhood communities.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When navigating the search for a new home in London, take advantage of its varied housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy the city has to offer.