Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have acquired valuable insights. London is lively, showcasing not just a variety of housing options but also its diverse communities. Students are presented with numerous choices at their convenience. Student accommodations alongside private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including facilities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, lively social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transportation network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could cost up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground reach, reaching zones outside central London. Fare rates for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance traveled and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London is rich in major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I shared my university experience with a friend, and we opted to share a room, substantially cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend harder to find through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural landscape, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek out familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical culture. Chinatown, at the center of London’s West End, is filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the array and depth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.