Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not be an extensive duration, I have gained some insights. London is dynamic, providing a wide range of housing options and communities. Students can select from various types of accommodation, including student residences, private housing, options with ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently book viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore available accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover public transport links.
During my quest for a place, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social centres, and the campus of Imperial. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being central. The public transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones could incur costs up to £5.25 daily, thus opting to walk short distances. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. The London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central region. Fares fluctuate based on distance and fare policies of train companies. The high living expenses around Central London’s notable attractions can be daunting. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which helped us save on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from different backgrounds and similar age groups, which tends to be more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. The most common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide alternatives. Living near essential shops saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are pivotal to its cultural diversity, presenting a variety of neighbourhoods. A significant number of international students look for familiar environments resembling their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and musical culture. The West End’s Chinatown features Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as examples of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a place to stay in London, take advantage of its varied accommodation choices, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of the city.