Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve acquired a considerable amount of knowledge, albeit my stay is relatively short. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students find an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide a range of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, both shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview future accommodations online, assess amenities, and identify nearby public transport connections.
In my endeavor to find a residence, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a remarkable transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize transportation expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I opted for walking shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail routes serve areas beyond the Underground network, reaching into zones that lie outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary depending on the distance and the fare policies of each train provider. Central London is home to significant attractions, which contributes to higher living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to cohabitate in a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something less commonly found in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential facilities like supermarkets and pharmacies aids in saving time on chores, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenging choice. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, showcasing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity from their home country. Southall in West London is known for its substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music ambiance. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the rich diversity of its accommodation choices, traverse cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.