Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve gained significant insights. London is dynamic, with a range of housing options and communities. Students can choose from various offerings, including student housing and private rentals, with alternatives 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 prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key sites, vibrant social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two considered central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement. To cut down on travel expenses, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Oyster card options make commuting to university more affordable. London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching regions outside central London, with fares varying according to distance and the train operator. While living costs are elevated near Central London’s attractions, co-sharing a room with a friend helped mitigate rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which can be more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential. Notable supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby, saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and music scene. Chinatown in the West End presents Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These illustrate the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When scouting for a new home, take advantage of London’s diverse accommodation, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy the city offers.