Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although it may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. The city buzzes with energy, offering not only a variety of accommodation types but also a multitude of communities. For students, numerous options are readily available, from student housing to private rentals, including choices 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 enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and discover public transport links in the vicinity.
During my housing search, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain in close proximity to key attractions, lively social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies getting around and traveling across zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys could cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services serve areas beyond the Underground network, reaching into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London attracts many visitors, contributing to elevated living costs. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend while attending university, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
The location of grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being close to essential amenities like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities are essential to its cultural landscape, providing a variety of distinctive neighborhoods. Many international students seek likeness to their home cultures. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End features a plethora of Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community areas.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. As you search for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of available accommodations, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.