Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I have gained some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied accommodation selections but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a wide array of options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private lodgings come with choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and home shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport facilities.
In my pursuit of a place to stay, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement between zones. I intended to keep travel expenses low since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones that lie outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more complex with private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood proves to be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural tapestry, creating diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric areas.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, relish the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.