Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although my time here has been brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic city, known not only for its variety of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students find a multitude of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private housing provide a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their prospective homes online, assess the amenities, and locate nearby public transport facilities.
During my quest for accommodation, I intended to lease a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London boasts a superb transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys could tally up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the specific fare structure employed by each train operator. Central London showcases major attractions, which leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private properties.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a connection to their home country. Southall in West London is home to a robust South Asian community, hosting Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to stay in London are influenced by your interests and requirements. While on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, discover the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.