Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by its communities. Students have numerous options readily available to them. Both student residences and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, complete with amenities and public transport accessibility.
In my quest for a place to reside, I was keen on renting a room in Central London to maintain proximity to major attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel with these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London houses major sights, contributing to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a gathering harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a difficult task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a range of diverse neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London seek the comfort of their home country. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown positioned in the heart of London’s West End provides a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural occasions. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to stay in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.