Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residence in London. Although it’s not a lengthy period, I have gained substantial insights. London is lively, boasting a variety of housing choices and communities. Students can select from numerous options, including student residences and private lodgings with ensuite and suite bathrooms, both shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, highlighting amenities and public transport connections.
While I was looking for a place, my preference was a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the heart. London’s transit system, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement. To cut travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. The Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network. Costs for inter-zone travel fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare schedule of the train company. Central London comes with high living expenses due to key attractions. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend, greatly alleviating rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student lodging to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that’s more difficult to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is not easy. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural landscape, offering a range of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population with Indian dining options, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End features Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are instances of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home, embrace London’s varied accommodation offerings, discover cultural enclaves, and delight in the city’s convenience and vibrancy.