Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have absorbed several insights. London bustles with life, not solely due to its varied housing opportunities but also because of its vibrant communities. Students enjoy a multitude of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private living spaces provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their prospective residences online, showcasing facilities and distance to public transport.
During my housing search, I sought a room in Central London, aiming to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating simple navigation and travel among the zones. My goal was to keep travel expenses manageable as crossing zones could incur charges up to £5.25 every day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail networks expand to areas beyond the Underground coverage, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London boasts significant attractions, which contributes to higher living expenses. Luckily, I pursued my studies alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and of similar age, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, offering an array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian populace, featuring Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, boasts a plethora of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods exemplify community living.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When embarking on your home search in London, embrace the diversity and richness of available accommodation, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.