Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months in London. Although it may seem brief, I have gathered considerable experience. London is a lively city with a wide range of housing options and communities. Students can choose from various types of living arrangements, including student housing and private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective housing online, including details about amenities and public transport links.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London, allowing easy access to prominent sites, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the core. London’s public transport system, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy commuting. Aiming to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 each day, I opted to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have reduced the expenses of university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network. Ticket prices fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of different train companies. Living expenses in Central London are elevated due to the presence of major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly decreased our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a challenge often faced with private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are common, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity akin to home. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population, offering Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the West End of London, features Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These illustrate examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London largely depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new abode, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation types, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the city’s convenience and vibrancy.