Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I’ve acquired various insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its array of housing options but also by its diverse communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Options for student housing and private rentals include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, along with details about their amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an excellent transport infrastructure, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel between zones seamless. I specifically aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have rendered university travels more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure applied by each train provider. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend facilitated our ability to share accommodation, significantly reducing our rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate housing, hoping to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is often harder to encounter in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a formidable choice. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comforts of their home culture in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, boasts a wealth of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When looking for new accommodations in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, investigate cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.