Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this time frame is brief, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge. London buzzes with energy, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private lodgings offer facilities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their future homes online, assess the amenities, and discover the closest public transport connections.
In my quest for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, which contributes to high living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies reduces time spent on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural makeup, creating a rich mosaic of diverse areas. Many international students look for familiarity with their native country in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music landscape. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable locations to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.