Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this period may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired some understanding during my time here. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, confirm available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my pursuit of a residence, I targeted a room rental in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have substantially lowered university commuting costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare system. The high cost of living near Central London’s major attractions is notable. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age cohorts—a mix that is harder to find in private lodgings.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, offering a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home nations. Southall, located in West London, hosts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with numerous Chinese dining venues, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centered neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are determined by personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation selections, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.