Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired a fair amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous options at their fingertips. Both student residence halls and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, assess amenities, and identify the closest public transport connections.
During my hunt for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal transit can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Tube network, extending to zones beyond Central London. Prices for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of individual train companies. With major attractions in Central London, living expenses can be steep. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The convenience of being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. A number of international students seek connections to their home culture in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, features countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These exemplify some of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. While on the quest for a new abode in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.