Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this timeframe may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered several observations. London is an energetic city, not only for its vast selection of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both student lodging and private rentals offer selections like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to investigate their future housing online, including facilities and closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay near popular landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and traverse between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structures of various train operators. The high living costs in Central London stem from its many major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, considerably lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s usually more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students hunt for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, with numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music ambiance. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The top areas to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, take advantage of the city’s varied accommodation selections, discover cultural hubs, and relish the ease and thrill that this remarkable city has to offer.