Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my stay in London. Although this period is relatively short, I have gained considerable insight. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its vibrant communities. Students have numerous local options available. Both student residences and private rentals include choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students living at home can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, check facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones quite manageable. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 each day. Thus, I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly lowered commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on the distance traveled and the fare structure of the respective train company. The high living costs in central London are influenced by its famous attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which led to considerable savings on rent. I was keen on intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for the comfort of their home culture. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of 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-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. While on your hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.