Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Though it might not seem extensive, I’ve gathered various insights throughout this period. London pulses with energy, not solely due to its vast selection of housing options, but also its multicultural population. Students find an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals showcase features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can arrange viewings of apartments effortlessly, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in browsing potential housing options online, highlighting amenities and access to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, vibrant areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London offers an impressive transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I strove to minimize travel costs, considering that inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Luckily, oyster card options have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, connecting with zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London stem from its major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood proves to be a tough decision. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural essence, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native lands in this city. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, offers a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.