Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of experiencing life in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights. London boasts a vibrant atmosphere, not only due to its diverse housing selections but also because of its multifaceted communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private residences include choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house sharing arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, and platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London’s transport network is outstanding, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zone trips can cost as much as £5.25 per day. Instead of relying on buses or tubes for short distances, I chose to walk. However, the introduction of oyster card options has made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for travelling between zones on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London is home to numerous attractions, which drives up living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly reduce our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was highly important to me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite difficult. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, cultivating varied neighborhoods. A lot of international students look for familiarities from their home nations in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community with an array of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the midst of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples showcasing community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing selections, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.