Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired a considerable amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, presenting a wide array of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of options available, such as student residences and private accommodations with features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore their future housing options online, verify amenities, and locate public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is classified into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transportation framework, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to limit travel expenses since inter-zonal trips could cost up to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone journeys fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The high living costs in central London correspond to its main attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging in private properties.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting diverse localities. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End features numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace its varied accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.