Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
As of late, I have completed nine months residing in London. While that may not be an extensive duration, I have picked up several insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not just by its varied housing options but also by its eclectic communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their prospective homes online, inclusive of facilities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenditures since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university students. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services can fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, which drives living expenses up. Luckily, I was able to attend university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share an apartment, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and a similar age range, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was a key consideration for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in presents its own set of challenges. The ethnic communities of London form a crucial part of its cultural backdrop, showcasing varied neighborhoods. Many international students search for a connection to their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a large South Asian demographic, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. In the center of London’s West End, Chinatown offers a bustling enclave filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These instances illustrate just a fraction of the community-focused neighborhoods available.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on individual interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.