Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although it isn’t an extensive period, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is dynamic, not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have abundant choices at their fingertips, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students have access to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate public transport connections.
During my hunt for a place, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have made commutes to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, with fares differing based on distance and train company pricing structures. Central London is pricey, but sharing accommodation with a friend helped us lower rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough decision. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek familiarity with their native culture. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End presents Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a residence, embrace London’s varied accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the city’s convenience and vibrancy.