Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve garnered some valuable experiences, even if it’s a short duration. London pulsates with life, not only due to its plethora of housing choices but also its eclectic communities. Students find an abundance of options nearby. Both student residences and private accommodations feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange for apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, check available features, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my search for a residence, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport network that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To keep travel expenses down, as inter-zonal transfers can reach up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travels more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground coverage, connecting to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing models of each train operator. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its many major attractions. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near basic stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during the exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home culture in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.