Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem lengthy, I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing numerous accommodation choices and varied communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, detailing the facilities and closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city splits into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate the city and travel between zones. I focused on minimizing travel expenses since inter-zonal travel could amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The living costs in Central London are quite elevated due to its major attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more difficult through private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite challenging. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, showcasing a rich mix of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their native country within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. When pursuing a new home in London, cherish the variety and richness of its accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.