Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While nine months may seem brief, I have absorbed valuable insights along the way. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its multitude of communities. Students have a plethora of choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their prospective homes online, examine the facilities, and locate the nearest public transport options.
Throughout my search for accommodations, my goal was to rent a room in Central London so I could be near prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with the innermost zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, the oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services cover regions beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London features major attractions, which contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, I started university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural identity, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the bustling West End, is a vibrant area filled with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.