Penned by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this time frame isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered various insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, recognized for its wide range of living options and dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices available, including student housing and private residences, with various configurations such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared housing. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transportation links.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The transportation system in London, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, supports straightforward navigation and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal transport can amount to £5.25 daily, I preferred to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London, with fares varying based on distance and train operator pricing. The high living expenses in Central London are balanced by its numerous attractions. Luckily, I shared a room with a university friend, which significantly lowered rent payments. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with wallet-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on shopping trips, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural diversity, weaving a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, in the core of London’s West End, presents a vibrant enclave with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When embarking on the search for new accommodation in London, embrace the variety and wealth of living options, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.