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 considerable insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide array of housing solutions but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have countless opportunities at their fingertips. Options for both student housing and private residences include ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, complete with amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I intended to lease a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and the imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a remarkable transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies moving around and traveling between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 a day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced commuting costs for university travel. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare structure of each train operating company. Central London hosts numerous attractions, resulting in high living expenses. Luckily, I attended the university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, allowing us to save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, wishing to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a connection to their native country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight just a few of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.