Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London is lively, characterized not only by an array of housing options but also by its vibrant communities. Students find a plethora of choices available right at their doorstep. Student accommodations and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Students living in the UK can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, complete with amenities and transport links.
In my quest for a home, I sought a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone fares can reach up to £5.25 each day. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services cover regions beyond the Underground reach, extending into areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary depending on the distance and fare policy of each train provider. Central London features popular attractions, resulting in high living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which led to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often difficult to find in private settings.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood poses its own challenges. The ethnic communities in London constitute an essential aspect of its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. The majority of international students in London seek a piece of their home culture. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the central West End hosts numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London largely depend on your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.