Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago marked my nine-month milestone in London. While it might not seem like a long duration, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its varied housing arrangements but also its rich communities. Students have numerous options readily available. Both student residences and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can swiftly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, including facilities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed for a room situated in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can reach up to £5.25 daily. Hence, I preferred walking shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more affordable. Besides, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to prominent attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I have a friend attending university with me, and we resolved to share a room, which significantly cut down our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errand running, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries while in London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End, is a lively area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.