Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its diverse communities. Students have a plethora of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals present a range of possibilities including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their prospective accommodations online, showcasing the available amenities and distance to public transport.
While searching for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six stepped zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card choices have made university travels more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to regions beyond the central area. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London features significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age, a mix less common in private properties.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London are integral to its cultural essence, fostering diverse neighborhoods. Most international students in London seek connections to their homeland. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music ambiance. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End presents a multitude of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to stay in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.