Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I have acquired several insights throughout this time. London is an energetic city, not only for its extensive range of accommodation options but also owing to its varied communities. Students have a multitude of selections available. Both student housing and private residences include choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, examine the provided amenities, and evaluate their accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain in close proximity to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitate simple movement and travel across zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses as inter-zonal transit can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on the distance traveled and the fare framework of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly cut down our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to meet individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find in privately rented properties.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for the comforts of their home country. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area home to numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrills this remarkable city offers.