Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have numerous choices right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private accommodations provide options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, showcasing amenities and access to public transportation.
During my quest for a residence, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel costs since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of utilizing a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London hosts significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, thereby significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s often tougher to attain in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home country’s cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave brimming with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight just a few community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. To discover your new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.