Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained substantial insights. London pulsates with energy, presenting a variety of housing options and communities. Students can select from an array of choices including student residences, private rentals, ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared rooms, private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, review features, and identify public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, entertainment venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation network, including the Tube, buses, and trains, facilitates effortless navigation throughout the city. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can amount to £5.25 daily; therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, accessing areas outside central London. Fares fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s pricing policy. The cost of living is high in Central London because of its prominent attractions. Thankfully, I shared a room with a friend, which helped us save on rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a challenge with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and drugstores is time-efficient, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses challenges. London’s multicultural communities are essential to its cultural identity, providing an array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their homeland. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End presents an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These illustrate examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence, take advantage of London’s varied housing options, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and excitement the city offers.