Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not be an extensive period, I’ve acquired some insights. London is a lively metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by its vibrant communities. Students find numerous options readily available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their potential living spaces online, showcasing features and transport connections.
During my hunt for accommodation, my desire was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to major sights, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys could be as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to stroll short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travels more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. While central London hosts major attractions, it also results in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we mutually decided to share a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age, which would be more challenging through private rentals.
Having grocery stores in proximity was essential for me. Familiar supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London significantly contribute to its cultural richness, providing diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of connection with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, has a prominent South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, embrace the array and depth of housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the comfort and thrill of this extraordinary city.