Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the milestone of nine months in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered some insights. The vibrancy of London stems from its not only diverse housing prospects but also its communities. Students can find a plethora of options right at their doorsteps. Both student residences and private living spaces present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential accommodations online, assessing amenities, and locating public transport links.
My quest for a place focused on finding a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a robust transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. To minimize travel expenses, as commuting between zones can be as much as £5.25 per day, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services serve areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services vary based on distance and the fare policies of each train company. Central London is home to major attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation and significantly reduce our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to meet peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s often challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near necessities such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting various neighbourhoods. The majority of international students seek a connection to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population, with a variety of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is lined with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a few of the community-rich neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. To discover your new home in London, embrace the richness and diversity of housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.