Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gleaned a great deal of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its array of lodging choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students find numerous options available right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring potential housing options online, assessing amenities, and evaluating their distance from public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to maintain close proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel across zones. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses since cross-zone commutes can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London, with fares varying based on distance and the train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to higher living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Familiar supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies in close vicinity reduces time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. The ethnic communities of London are crucial to its cultural essence, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek reflections of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, in London’s West End, serves as a bustling hub with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.