Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might seem brief, I have gained some insights during this period. London is a lively metropolis, recognized not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their future living spaces online, including facilities and transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to find a room to rent in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy traversal and movement between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the central part of London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses key attractions, which contributes to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from varying backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was crucial for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural essence, providing a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home country’s familiarity within London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.