Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this time frame may not seem extensive, I’ve gained several insights. London vibrates with life, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its communities. Students find numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings present alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can quickly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transport options.
In my quest for a place, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I opted to walk short distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more difficult to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is complex. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace its diversity and abundance of accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.