Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While nine months isn’t an extensive period, I’ve gained some insights during this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, not just for its wide-ranging housing possibilities but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous choices available right at their doorsteps. Both student residences and private rentals present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential accommodations online, along with the amenities they include and their closeness to public transport.
Throughout my quest for a residence, I aimed to find a room to rent in Central London to stay near prominent landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating seamless navigation across the city and inter-zone travel. I sought to minimize my transportation expenses as inter-zonal travel could reach up to £5.25 per day. I preferred to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have significantly reduced commuting costs for university trips. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail links span a larger area beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance covered and the fare structures of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, which drives living expenses exceptionally high. Luckily, I enrolled in the university along with a friend, thus we opted to share a room and achieved considerable savings on rent. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating interactions with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that would have been less likely in private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was a priority. Some of the most popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; economical alternatives consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood to inhabit is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, contributing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students arriving in London often seek the comfort of their home country’s familiarity within the city. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population and features numerous Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Meanwhile, Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and spirited music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area that provides a wealth of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods in London vary based on your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of housing options, delve into the cultural hubs, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.