Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently hit the nine-month mark of my stay in London. Although it may not seem lengthy, the experiences have been invaluable. London is an energetic metropolis that boasts a wide array of housing types and dynamic neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of options right at their fingertips, including both student residences and private housing, offering amenities 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 living spaces online, review facilities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s outstanding public transport, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for smooth navigation and connections between areas. To keep travel expenses minimal, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day, I opted for walking short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, thus serving areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these options depend on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations for the purpose of meeting peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages, something that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to necessary stores like grocery shops and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be daunting. The various ethnic communities of London are central to its cultural identity, creating a rich landscape of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look to find a taste of home in London. Southall in West London is home to a considerable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with diverse Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. As you search for new housing in London, embrace the city’s varied accommodation choices, discover cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.