Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated my nine months in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I have gained vast experiences. London is dynamic, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing offer various options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and locate public transport connections.
In my quest for a place, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a robust transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and inter-zonal travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones could amount to £5.25 daily. I preferred walking short distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card rates have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare structure of each train company. The high living costs near Central London’s main attractions are evident. Luckily, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in significant rent reductions. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby is a time-saver, particularly during exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Many international students look to find a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill offered by this extraordinary city.