Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may not seem extensive, I have gained invaluable insights. London is dynamic, not only due to its assorted housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide a range of features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective living spaces online, assess amenities, and locate public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to lease a room in Central London for proximity to primary attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, which drives up living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room, thus substantially reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural essence, creating a tapestry of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian cuisine, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively neighborhood filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your individual interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.