Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this timeframe may seem brief, I’ve discovered some valuable insights during my stay. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodation and private housing present an array of possibilities including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their future homes online, including details on amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses, considering that crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk for short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central city. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare policies of individual train operating companies. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to high living costs. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to considerably lower our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations as it was a better chance to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a mix that is often rarer in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are found, alongside more budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential retail outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London are fundamental to its cultural fabric, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek to find a touch of home in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.