Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I completed nine months in London. While nine months may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge in that span. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private 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 potential housing online, review facilities, and consider access to public transportation.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near prominent sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement across and between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on bus or tube services. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the tube network, connecting to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these routes vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare guidelines. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to the abundance of major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds within the same age range, a blend less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to fundamental stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time spent on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their homeland. Southall in West London boasts a sizeable South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, features a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary according to your interests and requirements. When embarking on your home search in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.