Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period may not seem extensive, I have gained substantial insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous selections right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, assess the amenities, and check their distance from public transport.
In my pursuit of accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a connection to their home culture. Southall in West London hosts a vast South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.