Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I completed my nine-month journey in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge in this period. London is an energetic city, not solely for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, showcasing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, where zones one and two represent the most central areas. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and movement across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the 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 outer zones of London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the specific fare structures of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, which contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a blend that is trickier to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to primary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. The diverse ethnic communities within London are integral to its cultural identity, providing an array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave featuring a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of the community neighborhoods available.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this extraordinary city offers.