Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained substantial knowledge. London pulsates with life, not only due to its range of housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students enjoy a plethora of choices. Both student residences and private accommodations provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my housing hunt, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones seamless. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can soar to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university cheaper. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, hoping to encounter students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less common in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, providing a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, showcasing Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community areas.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London vary according to your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.