Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London pulses with vitality, presenting a wide range of housing options and communities. Students can select from various choices, including student residences and private lodgings featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can explore platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine potential residences online, assess amenities, and find transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six zones, with the first two being the most central. The transportation system in London, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk short distances. Oyster card options have made travel to university more affordable. Moreover, services like London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, covering outlying zones. Fares differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London correlate with its many major attractions. Fortunately, I had a friend attending the same university, and we shared a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is not as easy with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops saves precious time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. The ethnic communities in London enhance its cultural diversity, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students find comfort in familiarity within the city. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End features Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify community atmospheres.
The ideal areas in London depend on personal interests and requirements. To locate a new home, explore London’s array of accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the city’s convenience and liveliness.