Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of living in London. Although it’s not a lengthy period, I have gained significant insights. London is a lively metropolis, not only due to its varied living arrangements but also its communities. Students have numerous options available nearby. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and locate the closest public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a robust transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for zone-to-zone travel on these services vary with distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London features major attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which led to substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiar elements of their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a lively hub featuring Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To secure a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.