Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have gained several insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its rich communities. Students find numerous selections available right at their doorstep. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential homes online, highlighting amenities and transport connections.
During my quest for housing, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, keeping me in proximity to major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and rail services, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could incur costs up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail networks service regions beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services are dependent on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, which drive living expenses up. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to considerable savings in rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often difficult to encounter in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines running errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is certainly not straightforward. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural makeup, showcasing a diverse range of neighborhoods. Most international students in London tend to gravitate towards the familiar aspects of their home nations. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with Chinese dining, retail stores, and cultural festivities. These represent merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best locations for accommodation in London greatly depend on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and depth of its housing alternatives, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.