Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated my nine months in London. Although nine months is a relatively short period, I have gained a wealth of knowledge during this time. London is a vibrant city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its thriving communities. Students have numerous choices available right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing present a range of options, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, check amenities, and assess their closeness to public transport.
When I looked for a place to stay, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to cut down on my travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to traverse shorter distances on foot rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commutes to the university significantly more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fare rates for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich network of diverse neighborhoods. Most international students in London seek the comfort of familiar surroundings from their home countries. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and its lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and wealth of its housing options, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.