Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not too long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gathered some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its vibrant communities. Students have many alternatives at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private rentals provide choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their prospective homes online, along with the included amenities and transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superior public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement throughout the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, expanding into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the specific pricing framework of each train operator. Central London houses key attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings for the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds in a similar age group, which can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near crucial shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a demanding task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing various neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music environment. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End features an abundance of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. To secure a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.