Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period is relatively brief, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its multitude of housing choices but also because of its varied communities. Students have a wealth of options available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings include amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to assess potential housing online, review facilities, and discover nearby public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal transport can cost as much as £5.25 each day. Therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to major landmarks, which can drive up living expenses. Thankfully, I ventured into university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is less common in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a range of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional garment boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining establishments, retail outlets, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. As you look for a new dwelling in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural communities, and revel in the ease and excitement of this incredible city.