Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve hit the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While this may not seem like an extended period, I’ve absorbed a fair amount of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its wide-ranging housing choices but also for its bustling communities. Students have numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals come with features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective living spaces online, including amenities and access to public transport.
During my home search, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel between zones. I aimed to cut down travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching out to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these providers differ based on distance and the fare system of each train company. The cost of living near Central London’s major landmarks is high. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, allowing us to save considerably on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, creating a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic hub housing Chinese dining venues, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, take advantage of its varied housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savour the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.