Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gathered several observations during this timeframe. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a broad spectrum of housing choices and multifaceted communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in browsing potential rentals online, evaluating available facilities, and determining proximity to public transport.
In my search for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the innermost. London has a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigation and travel between zones straightforward. I sought to lower travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, significantly cutting down our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination often less accessible in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for comfort and familiarity akin to their home countries in London. Southall in West London is known for its substantial South Asian population, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music ambiance. Chinatown, found in London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.