Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gathered various observations. London is dynamic, featuring a wide array of housing options and communities. Students have an abundance of choices, from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, assess facilities, and locate public transportation routes.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social gatherings, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the core. London’s transit network, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can set you back as much as £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground, with ticket prices fluctuating based on distance and the fare structures of train operators. The elevated living costs in Central London were mitigated by sharing a room with a friend, helping to cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential. Major retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to fundamental stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. London’s cultural diversity is crucial to its identity, offering varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity in London. Southall in West London is notable for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End showcases Chinese dining, retail, and cultural events. These serve as examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal locations in London depend on your personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence, embrace London’s varied housing possibilities, delve into cultural quarters, and relish the city’s convenience and vibrancy.