Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this timeframe is relatively short, I’ve acquired some knowledge throughout this period. London is a vibrant city, offering not only a range of housing choices but also a variety of communities. Students have countless options available. Both student housing and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
In my apartment hunt, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the central areas being zones one and two. London provides an efficient transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I intended to keep travel expenses down because inter-zonal fares can rise to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The heart of London houses significant attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, hoping to encounter peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private rentals.
For me, being close to grocery shops was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocers, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing selections, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.