Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month mark in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve gained invaluable experiences. The city pulsates with energy, evident in its varied housing options and vibrant communities. Students are presented with abundant choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private accommodations feature alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their future housing online, reviewing amenities, and accessing public transport information.
During my search for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to stay close to prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an efficient transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and journey between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips could amount to £5.25 daily. I opted for walking short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly lowered commuting costs for university students. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into regions beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these lines fluctuate, depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London houses major landmarks, leading to higher living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we resolved to share a room, which has saved us considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often scarce in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was crucial. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options comprise Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near indispensable outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting an area can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are pivotal to its cultural landscape, providing neighborhoods rich in diversity. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music culture. Chinatown in the West End presents a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. To discover your new home in London, embrace its wide-ranging accommodation choices, delve into cultural areas, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.