Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gathered valuable perspectives during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized by its varied housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio units, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential homes online, complete with details about available amenities and their convenience to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city consists of six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can reach up to £5.25 a day. Instead of opting for buses or tubes for short distances, I chose to walk. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, offering more coverage outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which helped us cut down on rent significantly. I found intercollegiate student accommodations preferable, as I hoped to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a tough choice. London’s diverse communities play a vital role in its cultural richness, offering a colorful array of distinct neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their homelands within London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, serves as a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal locations for staying in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, revel in the diversity and abundance of housing options, delve into cultural districts, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.