Several days back signified my nine-month mark of residing in London. While nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge throughout this period. London pulsates with energy, not only due to its varied housing selections but also because of the vibrant communities living here. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to browse their future lodgings online, review amenities offered, and assess their proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six nested zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across different zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize commuting expenses since traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I favored walking short distances over utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced university travel costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central district. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ according to distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. Central London is home to prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to attain in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets 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 streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural tapestry, presenting a rich array of diverse localities. Many international students in London look for a connection to their country of origin. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your individual interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.