Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated the completion of nine months living in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting various accommodation choices and lively communities. Students can find numerous options right at their fingertips, such as student residences and private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students may utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential lodgings online, review available amenities, and identify nearby public transport links.
In my pursuit of accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for easy navigation and travel between zones. To reduce travel expenses, which can accumulate up to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I opted to walk short distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London, with fares varying according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Residing in Central London is expensive due to its prominent attractions, but sharing a room with a friend has significantly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses challenges. The city’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural fabric, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant enclave filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The prime locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.