Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s a short duration, I’ve gained substantial knowledge. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an array of selections available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Residents from the UK can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future homes online, highlighting amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to find a room to rent in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones could amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to cohabitate, leading to considerable rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable alternatives consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The convenience of nearby essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities play an integral role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is distinguished for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to stay in London depend on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and excitement of this incredible city.