Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also its many communities. Students have a broad array of choices available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their potential accommodations online, reviewing amenities, and accessing public transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to stay close to major attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six zones, with one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to navigate and travel between zones. I intended to lower travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced the costs of commuting to university. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London has significant attractions, leading to higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, something more difficult to achieve through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural diversity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Most international students look for connections to their home country within London. Southall, situated in West London, hosts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, at the heart of London’s West End, is filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon individual interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vitality of this extraordinary city.