Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve accrued various observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a multitude of housing options and an array of communities. Students have plenty of choices available to them. From student residences to private lodgings, options range from ensuite and suite baths to shared rooms and studio apartments, as well as shared housing. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom help international scholars explore potential accommodations online, examine the amenities, and locate the nearest public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I was focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, the oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train operating company’s specific fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we decided to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating meeting peers from different backgrounds and of similar ages, a mix that’s harder to find in privately rented properties.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Access to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London form an essential part of its cultural identity, showcasing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a slice of home within the city. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few examples of neighborhood communities.
The finest areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. To locate a new abode in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.