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 be an extended period, I have gathered some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not just for its various housing possibilities but also for its multitude of communities. Students have a plethora of choices right at their doorsteps. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, encompassing amenities and bus connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room located in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network into areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly cutting down on rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and a similar age group, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies allows for time efficiency, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic groups are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their homeland within London. Southall in West London features a prominent South Asian community, with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases numerous Chinese dining options, boutiques, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. In your search for a new home in London, embrace the varied housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.