Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my ninth month residing in London. While it may not seem like an extensive period, I have picked up several insights. London thrives as a vibrant city, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its communities. Students have a wealth of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and solo rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective homes online, assess amenities, and locate the nearest public transportation links.
During my hunt for a living space, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since journeys between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. Instead of opting for a bus or tube, I preferred to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand to areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services depend on the distance traveled and each train company’s fare structure. Living in Central London comes with high living expenses due to the abundance of major attractions. Thankfully, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I leaned toward intercollegiate student housing, in hopes of encountering students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something that is often harder to discover in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a fundamental part of its cultural essence, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their homeland. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on one’s interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.