Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy period, I’ve gained various insights. London pulses with life, reflected not only in its varied housing options but also in its communities. Students find an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and access public transport links.
While I was on the hunt for a place, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize commuting costs, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced university commuting expenses. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are due to its major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, resulting in substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds, which is often more challenging in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses difficulties. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional dress stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, features Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few examples of community neighbourhoods.
The top areas in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.