Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic city, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also for its various communities. Students have numerous selections right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private 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 prospective accommodations online, view amenities, and assess their distance from public transport.
While searching for a place, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for easy navigation and travel across zones. My intention was to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, which drives living costs up. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and of similar age, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being situated near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, creating diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is prominent for its large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These serve as just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable locales to reside in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.