Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently marked my nine-month milestone in London. While this period may seem brief, I have gained considerable knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its diverse housing choices but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have an abundance of nearby options. Both student accommodation and private housing provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to explore potential housing options online, verify amenities, and locate nearby public transportation.
In my quest for suitable lodging, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. Aiming to minimize my travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, I opted to stroll shorter distances rather than use the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect regions outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was in university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which substantially reduced our rental costs. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and age groups, a blend that is harder to come by in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, presenting an array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a connection to their homeland within London. Southall, situated in West London, features a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave rich with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural celebrations. These represent merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. While searching for accommodation in London, embrace its diversity and richness, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.