Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have gained considerable knowledge during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its diverse communities. Students have numerous alternatives right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my search for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to traverse and move between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can accrue costs as high as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. Central London’s prominent attractions lead to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we split a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix harder to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, creating a vibrant mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, abundant with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its rental options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.