Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this period may seem brief, I’ve gathered some valuable observations along the way. London is an energetic city, not just because of its wide-ranging housing choices but also owing to its lively communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Homestudents can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore potential living arrangements online, inspect amenities, and evaluate distances to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to find a room to rent in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a fantastic public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have contributed to lowering university commutes. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside the city center. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The higher living expenses in Central London are driven by its major attractions. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, leading to significant rent reductions. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to discover in private properties.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be tough. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.