Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge throughout this period. London is an energetic city, known not only for its vast array of housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals provide opportunities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future accommodation online, assess the amenities, and gauge distance to public transportation.
During my housing hunt, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London boasts an excellent transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel costs can reach £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure implemented by each train company. Central London features prominent attractions, which contributes to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, yielding significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearby essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, which is particularly valuable during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is complex. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich tapestry of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire the comfort of their home country. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. To discover a new abode in London, embrace the city’s diversity and variety of accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.