Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I have gained significant insights during this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for its lively communities. Students have an array of choices readily available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations present different options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring potential living spaces online, reviewing amenities, and evaluating closeness to transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transit system that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making inter-zone travel straightforward. Personally, I sought to minimize commuting expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel less costly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Ticket prices for these services depend on the distance traveled and the pricing system of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are due to its major attractions. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options available like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for the comfort of their native countries. Southall in West London accommodates a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling zone with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for new accommodations in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.