Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering

Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve acquired several insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its varied housing choices but also for its diverse communities. Students have an abundance of options readily available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview potential accommodations online, assess facilities, and locate nearby public transportation links.

In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since cross-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for a bus or tube, I decided to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, contributing to the elevated living costs. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we resolved to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private housing.

Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.

Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community-driven neighborhoods.

The optimal areas to reside in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. When in the process of finding new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.

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