Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I have gained a wealth of experience during this time. London is an energetic city, notable not only for its wide range of living arrangements but also for its multicultural populations. Students have a plethora of options readily available. Both student housing and private rentals provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, assess amenities, and discover links to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room located in Central London to ensure proximity to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The living costs in Central London’s prime attractions can be substantial. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to cohabit a room and considerably lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and roughly the same age, a demographic mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies shortens time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, creating a rich spectrum of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall, positioned in West London, boasts a significant South Asian presence with Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional garment stores. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling locality filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for accommodation in London hinge on your interests and requirements. While on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing selections, explore cultural districts, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.