Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right around the corner. Both student accommodation and private lodgings feature an array of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom provide international students the ability to explore their prospective accommodations online, including available amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube service. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas beyond the Tube network, extending to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each railway operator. Central London boasts significant attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, considerably reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to engage with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often challenging to find in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being situated near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a difficult choice. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area rich in Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best places to stay in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this outstanding city.