Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its eclectic communities. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide a range of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while online platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, verify amenities, and locate nearby public transit options.
During my hunt for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. Personally, my goal was to minimize travel expenses as inter-zone commuting could be as high as £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances instead of taking a bus or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of individual train companies. Central London features major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended the university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in substantial rent savings. I favored living in intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural landscape, offering a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek to find a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the vibrant West End of London, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of neighborhood communities.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your individual interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace its diverse and rich housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.