Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have absorbed a great deal of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just due to its varied housing options but also because of its communities. Students find a multitude of choices right at their doorstep. Student accommodations and private residences provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can swiftly arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore their future homes online, including features and the closeness to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to be near significant attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university far more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services service areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, resulting in high living costs. Thankfully, I was attending university alongside a friend, so we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is not easy. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their home countries. Southall, situated in West London, hosts a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to stay in London are determined by your interests and requirements. To secure new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and excitement of this exceptional city.