Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently marked nine months of residing in London. While this timeframe may not seem extensive, I have gained several insights throughout my stay. London buzzes with activity, not just because of its varied housing options but also its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals feature options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, inclusive of amenities and public transport connections.
In my search for housing, I aimed for a room located in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, stretching to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of each train operating company. The costs of living in Central London are considerably high due to its major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which led to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, something harder to accomplish through private housing.
Being near grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, creating a rich variety of neighborhoods. Most international students look for connections to their home nations within this metropolis. Southall, located in West London, hosts a sizeable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, right in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for lodging in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and wealth of its housing possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.