Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long period, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a vibrant city, renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also its communities. Students have an array of choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can swiftly arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in viewing potential homes online, complete with features and transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I desired a room situated in Central London to be close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport system, including the underground, buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these rail services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Living costs in Central London are elevated because of major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rent burden. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies close by saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is complex. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a range of neighborhoods. A considerable number of international students look for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End boasts Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify areas rich in community spirit.
The finest neighborhoods in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To secure a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.