Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Though it might appear brief, I’ve garnered a substantial amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated for its multifaceted accommodation selections and dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, evaluate amenities, and gauge proximity to public transit.
Throughout my quest for housing, I set my sights on renting a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. London is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. The city prides itself on a superb transport system that encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensuring straightforward navigation and movement between zones. To cut down on travel expenditures, which can reach £5.25 daily for journeys between zones, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside central London. The prices for these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare structures of each rail operator. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which drastically lowered our rent burden. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is packed with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for new accommodation, embrace London’s varied housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.