Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic city, presenting a variety of housing options and communities. Students have an abundance of alternatives, ranging from student residences to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view accommodations online, review amenities, and access public transport links.
In my hunt for a residence, I targeted a room for rent in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with the first two being the core areas. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal transit can amount to as much as £5.25 per day, so I opted to walk short distances. Oyster card options have streamlined university commutes cost-effectively. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, expanding to zones outside central London, with fares differing according to distance and train company pricing structures. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, leading to significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, which is often more challenging with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential places such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homelands. Southall in West London boasts a prominent South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.