Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my ninth month of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London buzzes with life, evident in its varied living arrangements and vibrant communities. Students readily find numerous options nearby. Both student housing and private accommodations present opportunities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover public transport links.
During my hunt for a place, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to popular sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city consists of six layered zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, covering the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation. I sought to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can accumulate to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made travelling to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground to zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The expense of living in Central London is reflective of its many prominent attractions. Thankfully, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we shared a room, which allowed us to save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations as they allow for interaction with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket choices encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby conserves time on chores, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, creating assorted neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of their home culture within London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, features Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The prime areas for residence in London depend on your individual interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural districts, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.