Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained quite a lot of experience. London is an energetic city, not just due to its varied housing choices but also its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future housing online, along with the amenities provided and its distance from public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, connecting areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structures of individual train companies. Central London hosts major landmarks, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s tougher to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam sessions.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a vital aspect of its cultural landscape, providing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with many Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.