Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem lengthy, I’ve gathered various observations. London is a vibrant city, recognized not only for its extensive housing choices but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have plenty of options right around the corner. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective rentals online, examine amenities, and gauge distance to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to lower travel expenses since travelling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have indeed made commuting to university more economical. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, accessing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train operator’s fare system. The prominent attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, leading to notable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a blend that’s more difficult to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near fundamental stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a considerable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrate just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. As you look for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.