Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not too long ago, I marked the completion of nine months in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, my experiences have been quite enlightening. London is an energetic metropolis, recognized not only for its variety of housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students find themselves with a plethora of choices available. Options for student housing and private accommodations include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover nearby transit connections.
During my hunt for a residence, I desired a room in Central London to remain in proximity to prominent attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I preferred to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. However, options like the oyster card have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structures of each train operating company. Central London features key attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from assorted backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that is often difficult to find in private properties.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during busy exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The diverse ethnic communities in London are pivotal to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of distinctive neighborhoods. Many students from abroad in London seek a connection to their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just illustrative examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, celebrate the variety and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.