Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently completed nine months in London. While it may not seem lengthy, I’ve gained valuable perspectives. London vibrates with life, not only due to its varied housing options but also its vibrant communities. Students are offered a wide range of possibilities. Both student accommodations and private housing feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom are beneficial for international students to explore potential housing online, check facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has a superb public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traveling between zones simple. I aimed to reduce travel expenses, given that inter-zone journeys can amount to £5.25 each day, so I chose to walk for brief distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made trips to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground to areas outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing system of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London lead to increased living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us cut down on rent significantly. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds who are of a similar age, a combination that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Choosing a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural identity, providing a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London hosts a sizable South Asian community filled with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When exploring new housing options in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundant accommodations, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.