Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month mark of residing in London. Even though this timeframe may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of experience. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students enjoy many alternatives. Student accommodations and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes online, evaluate facilities, and consider their distance to public transport.
During my hunt for a new place, my preference was for a room in Central London to ensure closeness to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates navigating and traveling across zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can reach up to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I opted to walk short distances. The Oyster card options have made commuting to campus more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high cost of living in central London is a reality due to the abundance of attractions. Fortunately, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which can be harder to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving, especially during exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural landscape, offering varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their native countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End provides a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused areas.
The most suitable neighborhoods in London vary depending on personal interests and requirements. As you embark on your home search, embrace the richness and diversity of London’s accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.