Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated reaching nine months residing in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also its energetic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and consider proximity to transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to be near key landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six layered zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport infrastructure, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of movement and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize my commuting expenses, as inter-zonal travel could cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare framework of each train operator. Central London hosts prominent attractions, which contribute to high living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, offering a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home nations. Southall, in West London, features a significant South Asian populace with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for staying in London vary with individual interests and needs. When searching for new accommodations in London, embrace the diversity and richness of housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.