Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months might not seem like a long period, I’ve acquired a considerable amount of knowledge during this time. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings provide a range of possibilities such as 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 browse their future homes online, evaluate amenities, and determine closeness to public transportation.
In my hunt for a living space, my goal was to find a room to rent in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and commuting between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary by distance and the pricing structure set by each train operator. Central London features prominent attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on everyday tasks, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities form a key part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity from their home nations. 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 celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To secure a new home in London, embrace the variety and vibrancy of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.