Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extended period, I’ve gained some insights. London is a dynamic city, not just for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students have numerous options available within reach. Both campus housing and private rentals present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future housing online, review amenities, and locate the nearest transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to main attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting expenses for university. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, servicing zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London features significant attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I had a friend at university, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a blend often harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Most international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home country. Southall, located in West London, has a prominent 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 scene. Chinatown, situated in the centre of London’s West End, is a vibrant enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.