Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I reached my nine-month mark of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is a lively metropolis, presenting an array of housing choices and communities. Students have myriad options available, ranging from student accommodations to private residences, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can rely on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential houses online, review amenities, and access public transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. To keep travel expenses low since inter-zonal journeys can amount to as much as £5.25 per day, I opted for short walks rather than taking a bus or tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into regions beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses major attractions, which elevates living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Popular supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op exist, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand running, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London showcases a significant South Asian population, filled with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, features numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London largely depend on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.