Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated my nine months in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial experience in this period. London is an energetic city, not only for its array of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have countless choices available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private dwellings provide options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review the amenities, and assess their distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend coverage beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are attributable to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private properties.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their homeland within this city. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community filled with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area dotted with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrative community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on your personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and wealth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.