Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Even though nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its diverse communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both residences for students and private lodgings provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, examine the amenities, and identify the closest public transport connections.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aspired to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traversing between zones can incur charges of up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London features major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I was attending university alongside a friend, prompting us to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for a sense of familiarity with their native country. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian populace, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.