Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago I reached the milestone of nine months living in London. Although it’s not an extensive duration, I have gained a wealth of experiences. London is lively, not merely through its array of housing options but also its communities. Students have an abundance of choices, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodging online, assess amenities, and identify public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social epicenters, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two considered the most central. London’s transport system, which includes the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. My goal was to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zone travel could cost as much as £5.25 daily, prompting me to walk shorter distances. Oyster card selections have reduced university commuting costs. London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending to areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys differ based on distance and the fare structures of train companies. Living costs in Central London are elevated due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, which is more challenging in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. International students often seek a sense of familiarity from their homeland. Southall in West London houses a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and boutique clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End presents a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences. These serve as examples of community-centric areas.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, take advantage of its varying accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.