Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residency in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I have gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing an extensive array of housing options and varied communities. Students have many alternatives available to them. Both student lodgings and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, showcasing the amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions of Central London contribute to high living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging via private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves considerable time, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End hosts numerous Chinese restaurants, retail shops, and cultural activities. These are merely examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, take advantage of the diversity and richness of housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.