Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may not seem lengthy, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student housing and private rentals provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their future living arrangements online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transport.
While I was looking for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies traveling and connecting between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can reach £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commutes to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground coverage, extending into zones outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare system. Central London is home to significant attractions, leading to higher living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Residing near grocery outlets was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of familiar surroundings from their home countries in London. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in London’s West End features numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London will vary based on your preferences and requirements. When seeking new accommodation in London, welcome the variety and richness of its housing selections, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.