Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, known not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private rentals provide an array of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, complete with details on facilities and proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips could amount to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, varieties of oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central area. Pricing for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates depending on distance and the pricing policies of various train operators. The living expenses in Central London are elevated due to its many major attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, which is often harder to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies facilitates errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures within London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best regions to reside in London are contingent on your personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, explore cultural districts, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.