Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained a wealth of experience in that time. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide a range of options that include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their prospective accommodations online, assess the amenities available, and check their distance from public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London boasts a fantastic transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, as inter-zonal transport can reach up to £5.25 a day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of resorting to buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card choices have significantly lowered my commuting costs to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on the distance and fare structure of each train operator. Living in Central London comes with high costs due to the presence of major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to meet peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s more difficult to come by in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural diversity, creating a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home country within this city. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its accommodation options, explore the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.