Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my stay in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a few perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer numerous facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private rooms, shared spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can promptly arrange viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transport.
In my search for living quarters, I specifically looked for a room in Central London to stay near key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling convenient travel between zones. I sought to minimize my travel expenses, as moving between zones could cost up to £5.25 per day. Instead of taking buses or the tube for short distances, I chose to walk. However, oyster card options have rendered university travels more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The main attractions in Central London lead to steep living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. The ethnic communities of London are essential to its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London desire connections to their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling district with a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. As you search for a new home in London, embrace the variety and vibrancy of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.