Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it’s a brief period, I’ve gained extensive insights. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a broad array of living arrangements and varied communities. Students have numerous options, spanning student accommodations to private residences, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London for proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily, prompting me to opt for walking short distances rather than using a bus or tube. The Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to areas outside central London, with fares fluctuating based on distance and operator. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and considerably reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages, a task that would have been more challenging with private properties.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural tapestry, offering a multitude of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a touch of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in London’s West End is filled with various Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
Determining the finest areas to reside in London hinges on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home, embrace London’s myriad accommodation opportunities, delve into cultural hotspots, and relish the convenience and vibrancy the city offers.