Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy period, I’ve acquired some insights. London pulsates with energy, not only in its varied housing options but also in its communities. Students have numerous choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Students residing in the area can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential accommodations online, reviewing amenities, and finding links to public transportation.
While searching for a place to stay, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superior transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and transit between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services service areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s tougher to find within private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural landscape, offering varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of familiarity with their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new abode in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.