Penned by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my stay in London. While it may not be an extensive duration, I have picked up a few insights. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its vibrant communities. Students are presented with a wide array of local choices. Both student accommodations and private residences feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective housing online, including features and public transport connections.
During my quest for a place, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network is exceptional, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can reach £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have considerably lowered university commuting costs. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services cater to regions beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for travel between zones differ based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. Central London boasts major attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is not easy. London’s ethnic communities play a central role in its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a taste of home in London. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and necessities. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.