Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this might not seem like an extensive period, I’ve gained several insights. London is a vibrant city, not only because of its varied housing choices but also its communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student accommodation and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to view their prospective lodgings online, examine facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones simple. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, leading to high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was vital for me. Popular grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home country while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and enjoy the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.