Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its variety of living arrangements but also for its communities. Students have numerous options available right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private residences provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including amenities and access to public transport.
During my housing search, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can reach as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs near Central London’s main attractions are notable. Fortunately, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging through private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time during errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries in this city. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a colorful enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. To find a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.