Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London is lively, offering not only a variety of housing choices but also a rich community life. Students have numerous options available right where they live. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring future housing online, assessing facilities, and locating public transport links.
In my quest for a place to stay, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the tube, buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across different zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as crossing zones could cost as much as £5.25 per day. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside central London. Ticket prices for these services depend on distance and the fare policies of individual train operators. Central London is home to prominent attractions, contributing to higher living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and a similar age group, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, creating diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek an environment reminiscent of their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.