Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant city, notable not only for its various housing options but also for its communities. Students find an array of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, showcasing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
While searching for my living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and inter-zone travel. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses since crossing zones can set you back as much as £5.25 each day. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground coverage, extending into zones outside central London. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London features prominent attractions, leading to higher living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably cut down on rent costs. I favored residing in intercollegiate student lodgings to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend not easily found in private properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural landscape, weaving a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home culture. Southall, in West London, hosts a large South Asian populace with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a lively quarter abundant with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, embrace the plethora and richness of the city’s accommodation options, investigate the cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.