Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While nine months might not be extensive, I have acquired a few insights during this period. London is a lively metropolis, characterized not just by its varied housing options but also by its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing provide numerous options such as ensuite and shared baths, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their potential residences online, showcasing the amenities available and their accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to find a room to rent in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies transit between zones. I aimed to lower my travel expenses as inter-zonal travel could reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced commuting costs for university attendees. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend coverage beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance traveled and the fare structure of each operating company. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I was going to university alongside a friend, and we decided to split a room, which greatly alleviated our rental expenses. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—an arrangement that is more challenging to obtain through private housing.
Being near grocery stores was crucial for my convenience. Some of the prominent supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, especially during the exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to inhabit can be a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, showcasing a plethora of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London often seek the sense of familiarity of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and its thriving music scene. Situated in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London ultimately depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the wealth and variety of its accommodation offerings, delve into the cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.