Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months in London. Although nine months isn’t an extended period, I’ve gained several insights throughout this time. London is a dynamic city, not just for its varied housing options but also for its thriving communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Student residences and private rentals provide various types such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore their prospective accommodations online, reviewing the amenities available and evaluating proximity to public transportation.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to be near noteworthy landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, aiding in seamless movement between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transit could cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced university travel costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the specific fare structure of each rail company. Central London is filled with major attractions, leading to extremely high living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more difficult to find through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time while running errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a tough choice. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, creating a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home country. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.