Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months in London. Though it’s not an extensive period, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also its eclectic communities. Students have a multitude of selections available. Both student residences and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I set out to find a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies city navigation and travel between zones. I sought to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we resolved to share a room, significantly cutting our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and ages, a combination that’s harder to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic enclaves are a fundamental aspect of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and needs. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.