Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous options available. Both student housing and private rentals feature selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport access.
In my search for accommodation, I targeted a room rental in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most pivotal. London’s transport network is exceptional, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. However, oyster card options made daily commutes to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travels on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare policy. Central London is packed with main attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and ages, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its culture, providing a vivid array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for elements reminiscent of their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community areas.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.