Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not be a long duration, I’ve discovered a few insights. London is an energetic city, not just for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private accommodations provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in checking out their future living spaces online, along with amenities and public transport connections.
While I was searching for a place to live, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as commuting between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London features significant attractions, which drives up living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds who are also of similar ages, a blend that is harder to come by in private residences.
Being near grocery shops was a priority for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your individual interests and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, take in the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.