Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve acquired a great deal of insight. London is vibrant, offering a myriad of housing options alongside its diverse communities. Students have an array of choices, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can explore platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and locate public transport routes.
In my quest for housing, I targeted a room in Central London to be situated near notable landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London’s transport network, which encompasses the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, using an Oyster card has reduced the cost of commuting to university. The London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, covering areas outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the pricing models of train companies. The high cost of living in Central London can be daunting. Luckily, I was able to attend university with a friend, and we shared a room, which helped significantly lower our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds in the same age group, which is more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are integral to its cultural essence, contributing to a multitude of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the West End features an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence, embrace the wide spectrum of accommodation choices in London, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy the city has to offer.