Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy period, I’ve gleaned several insights. London buzzes with life, not just due to its varied housing choices but also because of its vibrant communities. Students enjoy a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Both student and private accommodations provide a range of choices such as ensuite bathrooms, suite bathrooms, shared rooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their prospective homes online, complete with amenities and transport connections.
Throughout my hunt for accommodations, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the most central areas being zones one and two. London boasts a superb transport system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips could amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones that lie outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys fluctuate based on distance and the fare framework set by each train operator. Central London houses major attractions yet comes with elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended the university alongside a friend, and we shared a room to considerably cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, supplemented by more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, creating diverse neighborhoods. A number of international students seek comfort in communities that reflect their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown situated in London’s West End presents an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These exemplify community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for accommodation in London hinge on your interests and requirements. To secure a new residence in London, embrace its diverse housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.