Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve absorbed a wealth of knowledge. London buzzes with energy, not only for its varied lodging options but also for its vibrant communities. Students find an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, including features and transport connections.
In my quest for a place to stay, I set my sights on renting a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized 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 facilitates easy movement across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for a bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting expenses for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, which contributes to elevated living costs. Luckily, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we resolved to cohabitate, leading to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations for the opportunity to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to encounter in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines running errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, resulting in diverse localities. A majority of international students in London seek connections to their homeland. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community with an array of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music culture. Chinatown in London’s West End presents a multitude of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These are but a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, cherish the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.