Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both university accommodations and private rentals include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future residences online, showcasing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London boasts a superb transport system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making traversing and commuting between zones straightforward. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of utilizing a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student lodgings, with the intention of connecting with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is trickier to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities within London are crucial to its cultural essence, presenting diverse localities. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home nations in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as examples of community neighborhoods.
The prime locations to reside in London rely on your interests and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.