Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration is brief, I’ve acquired several revelations. London is lively, presenting a variety of housing choices and communities. Students have numerous alternatives, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while those from abroad can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover public transport connections.
In my quest for a accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with one and two being the central areas. London’s transport infrastructure, such as the tube, buses, and trains, simplifies mobility and transit between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can tally up to £5.25 each day, so I opted to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. The London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, service areas beyond central London. Prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of the train operators. The cost of living near Central London attractions is steep. Luckily, I shared a room with a companion, which greatly reduced rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a blend harder to find in private rentals.
For me, being close to supermarkets was essential. Common grocery stores like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op exist, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are a fundamental part of its cultural identity, contributing a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End is filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrate community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on personal preferences and necessities. When looking for a new home, embrace London’s wide-ranging accommodation offerings, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the city’s convenience and vibrancy.