Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might seem brief, I’ve accumulated some knowledge during this time. London is a dynamic city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a wide array of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present several options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their prospective homes online, highlighting the amenities and accessibility to public transit.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement and travel among zones. I sought to minimize my transportation expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. I preferred to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside of the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure specific to each train provider. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood to reside in can be tough. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home culture in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to stay in London vary based on your interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.