Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its diverse accommodation choices but also by its rich array of communities. Students find an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both university housing and private rentals offer various configurations, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, examine amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two representing the heart of the city. London’s superb public transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures smooth navigation and commuting across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than opt for a bus or tube ride. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made getting to university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central districts. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing system of each rail company. The high living costs in Central London’s prime locations are notable. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us significantly cut down on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is trickier to find in private rentals.
It was essential for me to be near grocery stores. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to important shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines daily errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural identity, creating a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the familiarity of their native culture in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian populace, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of culturally rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of housing options, delve into cultural communities, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.