Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extended period, I have gained significant insights. London is a bustling metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices right at their doorstep. Student residences and private accommodations feature options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore prospective lodgings online, encompassing amenities and public transport connections.
In my search for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to traverse and move between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can incur fees of up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than opt for a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of individual train operators. Central London hosts significant attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Luckily, I was sharing accommodation with a friend while attending university, which allowed us to save substantially on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and a similar age group, which would have been more challenging through private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are available, alongside more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a multitude of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a dynamic hub filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are only a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When on the quest for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural districts, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.