Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated the milestone of nine months in London. Though nine months might seem brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge in this period. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied accommodation choices but also by its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options readily available. Both student housing and private rentals offer diverse alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, complete with listed amenities and transport links.
During my quest for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of movement across zones. I particularly aimed to minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services span areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside the heart of London. The fares for traveling between zones on these routes differ depending on distance and the pricing structure of the specific train company. Central London is home to significant attractions, which drives up living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to come by in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a difficult choice. The ethnic communities of London play a vital role in its cultural identity, providing a rich variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students in London seek a semblance of their home country. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. While looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.