Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, it has been nine months since I relocated to London. While this period may seem brief, I have gained significant insights along the way. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide an array of options, including ensuite bathrooms, suite-style baths, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review available amenities, and discover nearby public transport links.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation across the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily. Thus, I opted to walk short distances in lieu of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend the reach beyond the Underground network into areas outside central London. The pricing for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates based on the distance and fare system of each train operator. Central London is home to various major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled at the university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as groceries and pharmacies saves valuable time for errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural diversity, providing a rich abundance of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal districts for staying in London will depend on your interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.