Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve gleaned some valuable observations. This bustling city thrives not solely due to its varied housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students are presented with an array of choices. Both student residences and private rentals provide a multitude of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, as well as studio flats and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential rental properties online, evaluate amenities, and review accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aspired to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across the zones. To keep travel expenses down, as inter-zonal fares may soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground spectrum, extending into zones outside the central city. Inter-zone travel fares on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare guidelines of each train operator. With significant attractions in Central London, the cost of living can be rather steep. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a diversity less commonly found in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for my needs. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities in London play a pivotal role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Numerous international students search for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian presence with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music ambiance. Chinatown, nestled in the vibrant West End of London, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a selection of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most appealing places to reside in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. In your hunt for accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of living options, discover cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.