Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive period, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, famed not only for its varied housing options but also for its diverse communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. These include student residences and private lodgings with ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to assess their prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transit connections.
During my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transportation network, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traversing between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter 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 beyond the Underground network into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high living costs near Central London’s key attractions are notable. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in significant rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, which is tougher to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses a challenge. London’s diverse ethnic communities are key to its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich array of varied neighbourhoods. Many international students in London cherish a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown at the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge upon your interests and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.