Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem long, I’ve gained much knowledge. London is a dynamic city, recognized not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have numerous selections right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in browsing potential accommodations online, along with amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my search for a place, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made my university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of neighborhood communities.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.