Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this timeframe is brief, I’ve acquired some understanding. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not just by its variety of housing choices but also by its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of options available. Both institutional residences and private lodgings present various possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up apartment visits, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, evaluate available facilities, and determine proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, keeping me near key landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travelling across zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as moving between zones might cost up to £5.25 each day. I decided to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London. Fare rates for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing system of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a living space, which greatly lowered rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies within close range saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Right in the center of London’s West End, Chinatown provides a bustling area rich with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing options, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.