Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I have gathered some observations throughout my time here. London is an energetic city, not only because of its vast array of housing options but also due to its varied communities. Students have plentiful choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to investigate their prospective homes online, covering available amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my pursuit of a place to live, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel costs, as inter-zonal transit can soar to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly alleviating rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend less common in private properties.
Living near supermarkets was crucial for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are but a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.