Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of experience. London is an energetic city, offering not just a variety of living arrangements but also vibrant communities. Students find numerous options right at their doorstep. Student housing as well as private rentals include choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in viewing prospective accommodations online, checking facilities, and accessing links to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I wanted to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, 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 transportation system, which includes the subway (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes can reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. The rates for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London is replete with major attractions, leading to higher living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting various neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, is known for its sizeable South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, features a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the richness of its housing options, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.