Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although it might appear brief, I have acquired some knowledge throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its extensive range of housing options but also by its varied communities. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer a variety of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students have the ability to easily organize apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transportation.
During my hunt for a residence, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and transit between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend the reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary based on the distance and fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to split a room cost, which considerably decreased rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near critical stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is quite a task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London rely on your preferences and requirements. When looking for accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of options, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.