Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I achieved the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I have gained considerable knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not just for its varied housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
While looking for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to main attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and commuting between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made daily commutes to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to outer zones. Fares for these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare system. The cost of living in Central London is high due to its significant attractions. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and considerably reduce our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students seek connections to their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End is home to numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.