Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back marked my nine months in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its wide range of housing alternatives but also for its diverse communities. Students have a plethora of choices at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals provide 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 enable international students to explore their future accommodations online, including amenities and accessibility to public transport.
Throughout my hunt for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London houses major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, providing a rich blend of varied neighbourhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.