Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not be a lengthy timeframe, I’ve acquired a variety of perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting an array of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have plenty of options at their disposal. Both student residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite baths, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, complete with available amenities and their distance to public transit.
During my hunt for accommodation, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones representing the most central areas. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for seamless navigation and travel across zones. To cut travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes can reach £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, serving regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare system. The major attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend tougher to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Familiar supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and ethnic clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant area featuring numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.