Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gained some insights. London is a dynamic city, providing a range of housing options and active communities. Students have a wealth of selections at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential lodgings online, examine available facilities, and locate nearby public transportation options.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I opted for walking shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fees for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. Major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, substantially reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, providing diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students seek a link to their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End presents a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its accommodation selections, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.