Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gained valuable insights. London is a vibrant city, highlighted not only by its varied housing options but also its diverse communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes, assess amenities, and access public transport links online.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to be close to key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transport network comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could incur daily charges of up to £5.25. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs for university. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground’s reach, extending to zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structures of diverse train companies. Central London hosts numerous significant attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared accommodations, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend less common in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during the hectic exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic enclaves play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek to find the essence of their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian demographic with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a glimpse of the community neighborhoods available.
The ideal places to reside in London vary depending on individual interests and requirements. To discover your new home in London, embrace the city’s diverse and rich accommodation options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.