Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve acquired various insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its diverse housing choices but also for its rich communities. Students find numerous options right around them. Both student housing and private rentals offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to preview their potential homes online, assess the amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social scenes, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a top-notch transportation system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, since traversing zones can tally up to £5.25 each day. Consequently, I opted to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced university commuting costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operating company. Central London is dotted with prominent attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended the university with a friend, and we decided to co-rent a room, drastically lowering our rent payments. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is rarer in private rentals.
Living close to grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its rental options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.