Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this timeframe may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its rich communities. Students enjoy a plethora of choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and communal houses. Local students can smoothly arrange viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review facilities, and locate nearby public transport routes.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the core being zones one and two. London boasts an impressive transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, providing ease of movement across the zones. To cut down on my commuting expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 a day, I opted to walk short distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university trips more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London houses major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which allowed us to significantly lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations as they provide an opportunity to meet peers from various backgrounds and of a similar age, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a range of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a touch of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with plenty of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
Identifying the ideal places to reside in London hinges on individual interests and needs. As you seek a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.