Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its wide array of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students benefit from numerous choices available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in viewing potential accommodations online, verifying available amenities, and locating nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for a place to call home, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an outstanding public transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as crossing between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs around Central London’s main attractions can be daunting. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood presents its own challenges. The ethnic communities of London are integral to its cultural landscape, resulting in diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the rich diversity of accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.