Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this period may seem brief, I’ve gained various insights throughout my stay. London is an energetic metropolis, not just for its varied housing alternatives but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options to choose from. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house-sharing arrangements. Students residing at home can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, evaluate available facilities, and consider distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I wished to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 each day. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the city center. Rates for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare systems of each train operating company. Central London attracts many visitors, which leads to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination often harder to discover in private residences.
It was essential for me to live close to grocery stores. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.