Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some valuable insights throughout this time. London is an energetic city, notable not just for its varied housing selections but also for its dynamic communities. Students have countless options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide a variety of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, viewing amenities and their closeness to public transport.
During my housing search, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which aid in easy movement and travel across zones. I sought to decrease travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commutes to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services cover regions outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that would be more challenging to encounter in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Needing proximity to key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex choice. The ethnic communities within London are a vital aspect of its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with many Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on your individual interests and requirements. When hunting for new accommodation in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.