Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months is a brief period, I have gained some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing options but also for its diverse communities. Students have an array of choices available. Both student housing and private rentals include options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, highlighting amenities and access to public transport.
In my pursuit of a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university less expensive. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travels on these services vary contingent upon distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university along with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire a connection to their home country. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community, offering Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, welcome the diversity and wealth of options available, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.