Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve gained several insights. London is dynamic, not just for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring future accommodations online, highlighting amenities and transit connections.
In my quest for housing, I specifically sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services serve areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London features significant attractions, contributing to higher living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating connections with fellow students from various backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was important for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on chores, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students desire a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, hosts a significant 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 culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a lively enclave featuring Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.