Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed my ninth month in London. Although the duration may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial knowledge. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its eclectic communities. Students have an array of alternatives at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, as well as shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in assessing potential accommodations online, reviewing facilities, and identifying nearby public transport connections.
During my hunt for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I was determined to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commuting can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the central areas. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London, laden with major points of interest, carries a high living cost. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from varied backgrounds who share my age group, something that would be more challenging with private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing close to essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, presenting a range of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for a connection to their home country. Southall in West London features a prominent South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, showcases numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent some community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London rely on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.