Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has now been nine months since I began my journey in London. While the time has been short, my experiences have been numerous. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only because of its varied accommodation options but also due to its thriving communities. Students have an abundance of selections available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students find it easy to arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, verify amenities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, communal areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London prides itself on a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for straightforward travel between zones. To manage travel expenses, as inter-zonal transport can amount to £5.25 each day, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground reach, serving regions outside of central London. Fares for these services depend on the distance traveled and the pricing policies of each train operator. The high living expenses in central London are attributed to its prime attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly minimized our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to meet peers from different backgrounds and similar age brackets, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. The ethnic communities of London are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, offers a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These stand as just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for residence in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When in pursuit of a new home in London, embrace the variety and abundance of accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.