Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the nine-month mark in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained a great deal of knowledge during this period. London is an energetic city, notable not only for its variety of housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students have numerous options available right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, assess available amenities, and locate the nearest public transport options.
In my hunt for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and inter-zonal travel. To lessen my travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 a day, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Although, oyster card options have reduced university commuting costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas that extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones that lie outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operating company. Central London affords numerous attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we resolved to share a room, significantly reducing our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, aiming to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more difficult to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are an integral part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home country’s atmosphere. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music ambiance. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation selections, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.