Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like an extended period, I’ve gained considerable experience. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have numerous alternatives available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide a range of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, featuring the amenities provided and the closeness to public transportation.
During my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel between zones. I intended to reduce travel expenses as inter-zonal travel may cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than opting for the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have drastically lowered travel costs for university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train provider. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in considerable rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age demographic, a combination harder to encounter in private properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on tasks, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural fabric, creating a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area teeming with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, celebrate the diversity and depth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.