Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extended period, I have gained substantial insights. London is an energetic city, not only in terms of its varied housing options but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students enjoy numerous alternatives right outside their door. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide an array of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and assess their accessibility to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room to rent in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across different zones. I intended to minimize my transportation expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced the cost of university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure of each rail operator. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a richly woven network of diverse areas. Many international students in London seek a connection with their homeland. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These represent a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to your interests and lifestyle needs. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.