Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my journey in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve acquired some insights. London is a dynamic city, known not only for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students can find numerous nearby options. Both student residences and private rentals provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to preview potential homes online, showcasing facilities and accessibility to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on locating a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city features six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk small distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and fare structure set by each train operator. Central London offers key attractions, contributing to higher living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age demographic, which can be harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, creating a tapestry of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for cultural familiarity similar to their home country within London. Southall, situated in West London, has a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, showcases a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused areas.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While on the lookout for new accommodations in London, relish the diversity and richness of its housing possibilities, discover cultural hubs, and appreciate the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.