Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I have gained significant insights. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a plethora of lodging options and various communities. Students have abundant alternatives, ranging from student residences to private accommodations, including ensuite and suite-style bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and discover public transport connections.
In my quest for a place to stay, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. To lower travel expenses, I opted to walk short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys vary according to distance and the fare policies of each train company. The high living costs in central London are a result of the city’s key attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend and we shared a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. The common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores nearby, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, in the core of London’s West End, showcases numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.