Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration is relatively short, I have gained significant insights during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just because of its varied housing options but also its communities. Students have numerous choices readily available. Both student residences and private living spaces offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, complete with information on amenities and access to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an efficient transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel costs, as inter-zonal travel can tally up to £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for a bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structures of individual train companies. Central London is home to major attractions, which leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is tougher to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London crave the familiarity of their home cultures. Southall in West London is prominent for its extensive South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your personal interests and requirements. When embarking on a 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 vibrancy of this extraordinary city.