Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it may seem like a brief period, I have gained a wealth of knowledge during my time here. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have a myriad of selections available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide an array of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to review potential accommodations online, examine the amenities available, and locate the nearest public transport links.
In my search for a place to stay, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigating the city and traveling between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. As a result, I chose to walk short distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas in outer London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure specific to each train company’s operations. Central London is home to major attractions, leading to high living expenses. Fortunately, I was attending university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which helped us significantly reduce our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, as I hoped to connect with students from various backgrounds and of a similar age, a combination that can be harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time when handling errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities play an integral role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home culture. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.