Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this timeframe may seem brief, I’ve gathered various observations. London thrives as a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its dynamic communities. Students have abundant choices in their vicinity. Both student accommodation and private rentals present alternatives 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 empower international students to check out prospective lodgings online, detailing amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aspired to rent a room centrally located in London to stay near key sightseeing locations, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campuses. The city comprises six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and inter-zonal travel. I sought to minimize travel expenses as moving between zones could reach as high as £5.25 daily. Thus, I preferred walking shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university students more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Charges for traveling between zones vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs stem from the numerous major attractions in Central London. Thankfully, I went to university alongside a friend, leading us to share a room, which drastically reduced our rental expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations in hopes of connecting with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a pairing less commonly found in private properties.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves considerable time on tasks, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood presents a challenge. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich variety of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, positioned in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the centre of London’s West End, boasts countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural gatherings. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The finest residential areas in London are contingent upon your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new dwelling in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and abundance of its accommodation options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.