Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently hit the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While this may not seem lengthy, it has been a time filled with learning. The city is lively, showcasing not only a plethora of housing options but also its rich community life. For students, there are numerous choices readily available. Both student lodgings and private rentals provide various amenities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible accommodations online, review facilities, and locate transport links.
In my quest for a residence, my objective was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to popular attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across and between zones. To manage travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I opted for walking shorter distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university trips. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, stretching into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare system of each train operator. With many major attractions in Central London, living expenses can be steep. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, providing considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and of similar age, which is harder to find in private rentals.
It was essential for me to reside close to grocery stores. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s cultural communities are vital to its essence, showcasing diverse areas. Many international students long for links to their native cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, offers a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. When embarking on a search for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this outstanding city.