Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I celebrated my nine months of residing in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve gained various insights during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have a multitude of choices close by, with both student residences and private lodgings offering features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, showcasing available amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room to rent in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network, including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have immensely reduced university travel costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside central London. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the specific fare structure of each train company. Central London features major attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Thankfully, partnering with a friend for university allowed us to split a room, resulting in substantial rent savings. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varying backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination typically rare in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is challenging. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Most international students in London seek connections to their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area adorned with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just some examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to stay in London will depend on your interests and requirements. When looking for your next home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation selections, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.