Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge during this period. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its varied housing alternatives but also because of its lively communities. Students have a wealth of choices right at their fingertips. Both student lodgings and private residences provide options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom offer international students the chance to explore potential housing online, review the amenities, and locate the nearest public transport connections.
While looking for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made university commutes considerably more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Fare costs for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of each rail company. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to co-rent a room, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with a multitude of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your individual interests and requirements. When searching for a new place in London, take advantage of its varied accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.