Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While this might not be an extensive period, I have gained substantial insights. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students encounter a multitude of choices nearby. Both student residences and private housing present possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, verify amenities, and locate nearby public transit options.
In my quest for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to mitigate travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I opted for walking shorter distances rather than using public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services span areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar age, a combination tougher to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End showcases numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.