Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it’s not an extended period, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Both student accommodations and private housing provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange flat viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, complete with amenities and proximity to public transportation.
During my quest for a place to stay, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal transport can amount to £5.25 a day. I frequently opt to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside the city center. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train service. Central London is populated with major attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Luckily, I had a friend from university with whom I shared a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps conserve time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for a touch of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. When hunting for a new abode in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its accommodation selections, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.