Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
So recently, I’ve celebrated nine months of living in London. While it might not appear significant, I have gained a lot of experience. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available right at their fingertips. Both university dorms and private residences showcase an array of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my quest for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to maneuver and traverse between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services access areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the particular fare policies of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which provided considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend less common in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native culture in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These examples demonstrate the variety of community neighborhoods available.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.