Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month threshold of my stay in London. Although nine months may appear brief, I’ve gained several observations throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not only because of its varied living arrangements but also its eclectic communities. Students can find numerous options right at their doorstep. Options for both student accommodation and private rentals include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio apartments, and flatshares. Home students can easily set up viewings for apartments, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London so that I would be near key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses since journeys between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made traveling to the university more budget-friendly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside of central London. The fares for travel across zones on these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, which leads to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and together we decided to share a room, considerably lowering our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood is a daunting choice. The ethnic communities of London are essential components of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London are based on personal interests and requirements. While on the hunt for a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and abundance of the city’s accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.