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’ve gained significant insights throughout this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not just for its variety of housing options but also for its communities. Students have numerous choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private accommodations offer alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective homes online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transportation.
During my quest for a place to stay, I intended to find a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, 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 outstanding public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to limit travel expenses since inter-zonal trips could accumulate costs up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend service to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ according to distance and the fare framework of each train operating company. Central London features major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds of a similar age, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery shops was crucial for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities of London are key to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, has a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural hotspots, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.