Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its range of housing options but also its multifaceted communities. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals include alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, complete with amenities and distance from public transport.
When I searched for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near prominent attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates effortless navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, options with an oyster card have made daily commutes to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, accessing zones outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Living expenses in Central London are higher due to its major attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share accommodations, greatly decreasing our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing for the opportunity to meet peers from diverse backgrounds within the same age group, a blend that is less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own set of challenges. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural essence, creating a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity from their home countries here in London. Southall in West London is home to a considerable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are but a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on your preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.