Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its varied housing choices but also because of its communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student accommodations and private housing present different possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective living spaces online, inclusive of facilities and their distance from public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain close to popular landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since crossing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground system, extending into zones beyond central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing systems of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds within the same age range, something harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a connection to their homeland. Southall, in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.