Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London vibrates with energy, not only because of its wide-ranging housing choices but also due to its dynamic communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student accommodation and private rentals provide various selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city consists of six concentric zones, with zones one and two regarded as the most central. London features an outstanding transit network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, stretching into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare system of each train company. The high living costs around Central London’s main attractions can be daunting. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, which is often more challenging in private housing.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough choice. The ethnic communities of London are key to its cultural identity, creating a rich blend of diverse areas. Many international students in London look for connections to their home country. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown situated in the heart of London’s West End is an energetic area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the accessibility and exhilaration of this extraordinary city.