Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a great deal of insight. London is an energetic city, not only for its range of housing options but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both university residences and private lodgings provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students attending home can conveniently arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential residences online, including amenities and their distance from public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, 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 segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an impressive transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for smooth movement and travel between zones. I wanted to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zone trips can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or the tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of individual train operators. The presence of numerous attractions in Central London results in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly cut down our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and of a similar age group, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, creating a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a touch of home within their communities. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are based on individual interests and needs. As you look for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.