Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary in London. While nine months may not appear lengthy, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide numerous alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studios, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential homes online, showcasing the amenities and accessibility to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones could amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London features major attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination harder to find in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a dynamic area teeming with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to stay in London depend on your interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.