Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive timeframe, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic city, providing a plethora of housing options and a mix of communities. Students can choose from various types of accommodation, including university residences and private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students have convenient access to schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse prospective homes online, check facilities, and locate public transport connections.
In my accommodation search, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, which includes the tube, buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement between zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can go up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have lowered travel costs for university trips. London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying by distance and the respective train company’s pricing. The high costs of living in Central London are due to its major attractions, but sharing a room with a friend helped lessen rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves significant time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown in the West End boasts a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. While seeking a new home, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation choices, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the city’s amenities and vibrancy.