Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I have picked up some insights. London is a lively metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their disposal. Both student accommodations and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring their prospective homes online, including facilities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to reside, I was keen on finding a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and transit across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel could amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London showcases numerous attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I had a university companion, and we opted to share a room, considerably reducing our rent. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and around the same age, a combination that is more challenging to achieve via private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on tasks, especially during exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a rich tapestry of diverse districts. Most international students look for a semblance of their home country while in London. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional garment outlets. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End showcases numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to dwell in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. While looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.