Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is a vibrant city, not just for its diverse housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have numerous selections available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential housing online, verify facilities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and movement between zones. I intended to minimize commuting expenses since travel between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we cohabited in a room, considerably reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar age, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
It was essential for me to be near grocery stores. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, creating a rich array of diverse locales. Many international students seek a connection to their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.