Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its myriad housing options but also by its multifaceted communities. Students have ample choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing offer a range of possibilities including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
During my quest for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the subway (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and transit between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving zones outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London houses major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I was attending university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and make considerable savings on rent. I favored living in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a connection that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural essence, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling locale with Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.