Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have spent nine months residing in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I have gained several insights over this time. London is a vibrant city, offering not only a variety of housing options but also its rich mix of communities. Students have many alternatives available to them. Both student accommodations and private residences provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring prospective housing online, assessing available amenities, and determining the distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, considering that inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 daily, thus I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting with areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London has many major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private accommodations.
Living close to 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 near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for everyday tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Picking the right neighborhood is complex. London’s various ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their homeland. Southall in West London, which has a sizable South Asian population, is home to Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the West End of London, is a bustling area lush with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London are based on individual preferences and requirements. When seeking accommodation in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.