Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. While it may not be a long stretch, I’ve gleaned several observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing alternatives and eclectic communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them, encompassing student accommodations and private lodgings such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to peruse prospective accommodations online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for suitable housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitate straightforward navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenditures, as inter-zonal travel can sum to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk brief distances rather than utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending beyond central London. Prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train service. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I shared accommodation with a friend from university, significantly lowering our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural fabric, presenting varied neighbourhoods. Many international students search for ties to their home nations within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community and features Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for your new home in London, appreciate the city’s varied accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.