Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have gathered various insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, offering an array of housing choices and lively communities. Students have numerous options available right at their doorstep, including student accommodations and private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, showcasing amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social scenes, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a robust transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation between zones. To minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily, I preferred to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structures of various train operators. The major attractions in Central London contribute to higher living costs. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s diverse ethnic communities are key to its cultural landscape, creating an array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is filled with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples merely scratch the surface of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural niches, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.