Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive duration, I’ve amassed some observations. London is an energetic metropolis, recognized for its varied housing options and lively communities. Students benefit from countless choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
While I was on the hunt for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, aids in smooth navigation and transit between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transportation can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train company. The significant attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly diminishing rent costs. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more difficult with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural richness, providing a vibrant variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End showcases numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.