Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago marked my nine months of residing in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge during this period. London is an energetic city, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of the diverse communities inhabiting it. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student housing and private rentals provide different possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their future housing online, assess the amenities provided, and determine their distance from public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to the distance traveled and the fare structure of each train operating company. Central London hosts major attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Fortunately, I was attending university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, allowing for significant rent savings. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Some popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time when running errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to inhabit is a difficult choice. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural tapestry, creating a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their homeland within this city. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Nestled in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a vibrant area with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to stay in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and allure of London’s housing options, explore the cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.