Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gathered several insights throughout this time. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices readily available. Both student residences and private rentals present a range of alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students find it easy to schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring their prospective homes online, along with details on amenities and access to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near major sights, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a remarkable transport system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling seamless navigation and transit between zones. Personally, I aspired to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I preferred walking short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made daily commutes to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, connecting to areas outside central London. Fare costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to split a room, substantially reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When embarking on the journey to find a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.