Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London is a dynamic city, presenting a variety of housing choices and communities. Students enjoy numerous options right at their fingertips, ranging from student residences to private housing with features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore listings online, assess amenities, and locate transport links.
During my hunt for accommodation, I was keen on a room in Central London to stay close to popular sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six zones, with one and two being the most central. London boasts a top-notch transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones could amount to as much as £5.25 per day, thus I opted to walk shorter distances. The Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and the fare structure set by each rail company. The high living costs in Central London are a result of its significant attractions. Fortunately, I had a university friend with whom I shared a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to locate in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural diversity, presenting a wide range of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for the comforts of their home country while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian populace with various Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases a range of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are mere examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are dictated by your interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.