Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London’s energy is remarkable, not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings provide accommodations such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private quarters, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and discover connections to public transport.
During my housing search, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to main attractions, vibrant social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured in six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system is superb, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transit could cost as much as £5.25 each day. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have alleviated university travel costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London boasts major tourist attractions, which contributes to high living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared accommodation, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s often harder to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, along with economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural identity, creating a tapestry of diverse areas. Most international students look for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of home here. Southall in West London is noted for its large South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean cultural scene and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, features Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal regions to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. While seeking a new home in London, take in the diversity and depth of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy offered by this extraordinary city.