Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, it has been quite educational. London is dynamic, not only for its varied housing options but also for its diverse communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including features and accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking public transportation. Options for Oyster cards have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for these services differ depending on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. The high living expenses in Central London stem from its major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and the same age group—a combination that’s more difficult to locate in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural mosaic, providing an array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home culture while in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is replete with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.