Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve gained some insights. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a variety of housing options and lively communities. Students have numerous alternatives, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment visits, while international students might utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible housing online, assess amenities, and locate public transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transit network, which includes the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Oyster card choices have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the scope of the Underground network, reaching broader regions. Ticket prices fluctuate according to distance and the fare structures of different train companies. The costs of living in Central London’s primary attractions tend to be high. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mixture that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are essential to its cultural landscape, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek comfort from familiar environments. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian population, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End boasts numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of community-centric areas.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. As you search for a new home, embrace the city’s varied accommodation choices, discover cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy London has to offer.