Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing a multitude of housing alternatives and varied communities. Students are presented with numerous options, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily organize apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s public transportation system, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel among zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I opted to walk for shorter distances. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London, with prices fluctuating based on distance and the fare structures of different train companies. The significant attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to substantially lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is more challenging with private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural essence, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, replete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the heart of the West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon individual interests and requirements. As you search for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.