Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it may not seem like a long time, I’ve accumulated valuable experiences throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing an array of housing options and lively neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of alternatives, from student residences to private lodgings, featuring ensuite and suite restrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can explore potential housing online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, allowing them to verify available amenities and proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to popular sites, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize transportation expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The primary attractions in central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was a priority for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time when running errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The ethnic communities within the city are vital to its cultural richness, creating a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area replete with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.