Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem lengthy, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is lively, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students have numerous options just a stone’s throw away. Both student residences and private rental accommodations provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, review amenities, and identify nearby public transportation links.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segregated into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across the city and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips could cost as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of taking 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 reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, greatly reducing our rent. I preferred accommodation with other students to connect with peers from different backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores close by was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near important stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home cultures within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples illustrate just a few of the vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation possibilities, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.