Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its wide-ranging housing alternatives but also for its diverse communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private accommodations offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and identify nearby public transport options.
In searching for my home, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation system is exceptional, with the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made travels to the university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these trains vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in high living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds, which would have been more challenging through private residences.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near critical stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.