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 extended period, I’ve acquired a considerable amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous choices available right outside their doors. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide a variety of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to check out potential homes online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
While I was looking for a place to stay, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can incur costs up to £5.25 per day. I decided to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have substantially lowered university travel costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond Central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London features prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age demographics, a blend that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving for running errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are essential to its cultural mosaic, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for a connection to their home country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional fashion shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.