Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, there have been numerous takeaways during this period. London is an energetic city, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student accommodation and private lodgings include various options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange viewing appointments for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future lodging options online, along with the services provided and nearby public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social locales, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transit can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to the distance and fare structure of each train company. The prominence of major attractions in Central London leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I commenced university alongside a friend, and we decided to co-rent a room, allowing us to save significantly on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s diverse communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, showcases a lively enclave filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples merely scratch the surface of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to inhabit in London will vary based on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the rich diversity and abundance of housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.