Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period is not extensive, I have gained some insights. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied housing selections but also for its communities. Students have an abundance of nearby options. Both student accommodations and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, assess amenities, and discover public transit connections.
In my quest for accommodations, I desired a room in Central London to be near significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit network, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into regions outside the Underground network, accessing zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new place in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.