Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, review amenities, and identify the nearest public transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I wished to minimize my travel expenses since crossing zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas extending beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, greatly reducing our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to discover in private properties.
Residing near 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 close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, offering a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, stands as a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to dwell in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When pursuing a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.