Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge in this relatively short period. London thrives as a vibrant city, not only due to its wide array of housing choices but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Whether looking at student accommodations or private rentals, there are choices ranging from ensuite and suite bathrooms to shared and private lodging, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to virtually explore potential homes, check the amenities provided, and locate the closest public transportation links.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city consists of six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a robust transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel among the zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services access areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures implemented by each train operator. The high living costs in Central London stem largely from its many significant attractions. Thankfully, I was enrolled in university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations as I was eager to meet peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix less common in private rentals.
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to basic stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. The ethnic communities within London significantly contribute to its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek to find elements of their home culture within this city. Southall, situated in West London, is notable for its large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton stands out for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Located in the West End of London, Chinatown offers a bustling atmosphere filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on the search for a new home in London, embrace the vast diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.