Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a wide array of housing selections and energetic neighborhoods. Students are presented with various options at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private lodgings offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, encompassing facilities and accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigating the city. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can lead to costs up to £5.25 each day. Instead of relying on buses or the tube for short distances, I made it a point to walk. Nonetheless, oyster card deals have made commutes to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zones. Inter-zone travel charges on these services differ based on distance and the fare arrangements of each train operator. The presence of major attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended the university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more difficult in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, providing a colorful mix of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for familiarity in London. In West London, Southall boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a bustling district famous for its numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, take advantage of the city’s varied accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.