Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained several insights during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing options but also for its diverse communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing present a range of alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential living spaces online, assess amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
As I searched for a residence, I aimed for a room to rent in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is arranged into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London boasts an excellent public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones effortless. I sought to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short routes instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced university commute costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare regulations of each train provider. Central London hosts numerous major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I was attending university with a friend, so we chose to share a room, allowing us to save considerably on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing close to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a significant choice. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comforts of their homeland within this city. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and vibrancy of its accommodation selections, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city provides.