Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have discovered several insights. London thrives as a lively city, celebrated for its varied housing options and dynamic communities. Students have numerous nearby alternatives. Both student residences and private housing provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, verify amenities, and find links to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation between zones. To keep travel costs at bay, as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I opted to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting expenses to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network. Inter-zone travel fares differ depending on the distance and fare structure of each train provider. Central London, rich in major attractions, has elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred to reside in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and a similar age group, a mix that is harder to find in private housing.
It was essential for me to live near grocery outlets. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities deeply enrich its cultural landscape, presenting varied neighborhoods. A majority of international students look for connections with their home culture. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London are contingent upon your interests and necessities. When hunting for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.