Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this timeframe may not seem extensive, I’ve garnered some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its array of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have ample alternatives accessible to them. Both student accommodations and private housing feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential living spaces online, showcasing available amenities and transport links.
During my search for accommodations, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys could total up to £5.25 daily. Instead of relying on buses or the tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing locations outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London boasts major attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we mutually decided to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be quite daunting. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a touch of home. Southall in West London hosts a prominent South Asian population with Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to inhabit in London are influenced by your personal interests and requirements. When you embark on the journey of finding a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing selections, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.