Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its rich communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and identify public transportation options.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize transportation expenses, as crossing zones can incur costs up to £5.25 daily. I opted for walking over taking a bus or tube for short distances. Still, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs to the university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend from university, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, showcasing diverse localities. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London is known for its extensive South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown in the centre of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for accommodation in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.