Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached my nine-month milestone in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable experience during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not only because of its varied housing possibilities but also because of its lively communities. Students benefit from numerous options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, check the facilities, and assess their distance from public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating seamless navigation and travel between zones. My goal was to minimize my travel expenses since crossing zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the specific pricing structure of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to cohabit, which allowed us to save considerably on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to encounter individuals from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a complex choice. London’s