Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Though it may not seem lengthy, I’ve gained valuable insights. London is a dynamic city, characterized by its varied accommodation choices and its lively communities. Students have a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private residences feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including details on their features and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, options like the oyster card have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare setup of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I was in university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend less common in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a considerable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling enclave with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary according to your interests and requirements. In seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, discover cultural hubs, and savor the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.