Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my time in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gained a lot of insight. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future housing online, along with details on amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to ensure easy access to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transit system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to as much as £5.25 a day. I preferred to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The high living costs near major attractions in Central London are notable. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from different backgrounds and the same age group, a mix that can be rarer in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities of London are key to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best places to stay in London are influenced by your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.