Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London pulses with energy, not only due to its varied housing selections but also because of its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in previewing their prospective homes online, reviewing facilities, and locating nearby public transport links.
In my quest for a place to stay, I set my sights on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing and commuting between zones a breeze. I was keen to lower travel expenses since crossing zones could cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances over taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services span regions beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes differ depending on distance and the fare structure established by each train operator. Central London, rich with major attractions, often incurs steep living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a companion, and we agreed to share a room, which resulted in significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to encounter in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities within London are integral to its cultural landscape, fostering varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of connection to their home nations. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music ambiance. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End showcases a plethora of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a handful of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. While looking for a new home, embrace London’s diverse accommodation selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.