Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not solely for its varied housing options but also its communities. Students have a myriad of choices readily available. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment tours, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
During my quest for a place, I sought a room in Central London to be near significant attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal tickets can reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance traveled and each train company’s fare structure. Central London boasts major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend less common in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential stores like grocery outlets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents challenges. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diverse and rich accommodation alternatives, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.