Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, my time in London reached the nine-month mark. While this may not seem lengthy, I have gained substantial experiences. London is lively, not only in its array of housing options but also in its diverse communities. Students have numerous alternatives, ranging from university accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective accommodations online, complete with details about amenities and public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The public transport system in London, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation throughout the city. I sought to minimize travel expenses as travelling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day, so I opted to walk shorter distances. The Oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network. Fares for inter-zone travel vary according to distance and the fare structures of train operators. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its major attractions. Thankfully, I had the opportunity to attend university with a friend, and we shared accommodation, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
It was essential for me to live near grocery shops. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shopping areas saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a range of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students search for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End features Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home, embrace London’s wide-ranging accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that the city has to offer.