Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. While it may not be a lengthy duration, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic city, rich in its variety of housing options and lively communities. Students benefit from a multitude of alternatives. Both student residences and private lodgings provide an array of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring their potential accommodations online, showcasing amenities and access to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a robust transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can amount to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university trips more economical. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure set by each train company. Central London is home to major landmarks, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age profiles, a mix that is harder to come by in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was imperative for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities within London contribute significantly to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire a connection to their home cultures. Southall in West London accommodates a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End of London is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most desirable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, cherish the diversity and abundance of housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.