Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired considerable knowledge during this time. London is a dynamic city, not only with its vast selection of housing alternatives but also its varied communities. Students have a multitude of choices at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment inspections, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in viewing potential living spaces online, evaluating the amenities provided, and identifying the closest public transportation links.
In my quest for a residence, I sought to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social locales, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel across zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can escalate to £5.25 daily. Instead of using a bus or tube, I chose to walk short distances. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I joined the university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural backdrop, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse areas. Many international students in London yearn for the comfort of their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant enclave filled with numerous Chinese dining venues, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a glimpse of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.