Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, providing an array of housing choices and lively communities. Students have various options at their disposal. Both student accommodations and private rentals come with features such as en-suite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment tours, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential homes online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
During my search for a place to stay, my goal was to find a room in Central London to be close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London offers an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to move about and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize transport expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing policy of each train operator. The presence of major attractions in Central London leads to increased living expenses. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while studying reduced our rent considerably. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is quite complex. The ethnic communities within London are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music landscape. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural districts, and partake in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.