Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it might appear brief, I’ve gained considerable knowledge during this period. London is an energetic city, known not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of choices readily available. Student residences and private lodgings present various selections, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to be near prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses since cross-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation and significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is quite a task. London’s ethnic communities constitute an essential part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community, with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.