Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Though it’s a short duration, I’ve gained some insights. London is a vibrant city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student dormitories and private housing present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can seamlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their future residences online, including features and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zonal travel. My goal was to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of the central area. Fares for cross-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train provider. Central London houses major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something less convenient through private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for a taste of home within London. Southall in West London boasts a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean background and lively music environment. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, presents numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When seeking new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.