Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though this might seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated not only for its range of housing choices but also for its rich mix of cultures. Students can find numerous options right at their doorsteps. Student accommodations and private rentals provide a variety of arrangements such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, showcasing amenities and access to public transport.
As I sought a place to stay, my preference was for a room in Central London to be near prominent landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most pivotal. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to curb travel expenses since inter-zonal trips could tally up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made my university trips more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. The fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare regime of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination less prevalent in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget alternatives consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic neighborhoods play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant mosaic of diverse communities. Numerous international students look for a taste of home within London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery establishments, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music environment. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new home, embrace London’s varied accommodation possibilities, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.