Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently achieved the milestone of nine months residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered a wealth of knowledge during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its communities. Students have an array of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, assess facilities, and locate nearby public transportation links.
In my search for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is divided into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying city travel. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can escalate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside Central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The living costs in Central London’s prime attractions are elevated. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, drastically reducing our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination more challenging to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is time-efficient, particularly during examination seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity from their home nations within London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.