Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a significant duration, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, known not only for its varied housing choices but also for its energetic communities. Students find a plethora of options in their vicinity. Both student accommodations and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential homes online, including facilities and closeness to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a space in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is sectioned into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since journeys between zones may cost as much as £5.25 each day. Instead of hopping on a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail routes reach areas beyond the Underground network, stretching into zones outside the central areas. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare systems of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I went to university with a companion, and we opted to share a room, significantly cutting down our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would be more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was a priority for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, showcasing varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is packed with Chinese eateries, retail outlets, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. To locate a new dwelling in London, embrace its eclectic housing opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.