Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive period, I’ve absorbed quite a bit. London pulsates with life, not only in terms of varied housing options but also through its dynamic communities. Students enjoy a plethora of selections right at their doorstep. Student accommodations and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite bathrooms, suites, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, review facilities, and locate local public transport options.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport framework, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenditures, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on bus or tube services. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London’s notable attractions contribute to high living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite a task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples merely scratch the surface of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are influenced by your interests and requirements. While on the hunt for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.