Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London thrives, not only in its varied housing options but also within its communities. There are numerous choices available for students right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their future accommodations online, reviewing amenities, and discovering public transport connections.
In my hunt for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized 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 between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted for walking shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university less expensive. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services service areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London boasts major attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These highlight a few of the neighborhood communities.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. To secure a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.