Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of my stay in London. Though it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London pulsates with life, both in its varied housing choices and its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their doorstep. The array of student housing and private accommodation includes ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in browsing their future homes online, showcasing features and public transport accessibility.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with the most central areas being zones one and two. London boasts a superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across different zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, since crossing zones could cost as much as £5.25 per day. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I opted to walk short distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university less expensive. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground, extending into zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on travel distance and the pricing models of each rail company. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options involve Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near indispensable stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during busy exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, creating vibrant neighborhoods. Many international students pursue a sense of familiarity from their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In the central area of London’s West End, Chinatown is packed with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.