Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Although it isn’t an extensive duration, I have acquired some valuable insights. London is a vibrant city, presenting a broad range of housing options and varied communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private residences offer diverse selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential residences online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, entertainment areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones easy. To minimize travel expenses, which can add up to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal trips, I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The prices for these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s pricing system. The high living costs in Central London’s popular attractions are notable. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diverse accommodation offerings, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.