Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month mark of my stay in London. Although this duration might appear brief, it has provided me with various insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its range of housing choices, but also for its rich array of communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student residences and private housing offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, including facilities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on finding a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and move between zones. I sought to reduce travel costs since inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare policy of each train company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. A significant number of international students seek connections to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community areas.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.