Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gathered some perspectives. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied lodging options but also for its communities. Students have a multitude of choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview prospective homes online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central London area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to numerous main attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds of a similar age, which would have been more difficult with private properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, supplemented by more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural landscape, presenting varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London features a considerable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is packed with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diverse and rich accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.