Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration is relatively short, I’ve acquired some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing a plethora of housing options and communities. Students face numerous choices, including student residences and private accommodations with ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can leverage websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, assess facilities, and locate public transport links.
During my search for a place, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which encompasses the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates navigation. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones could set one back up to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk short distances instead of using public transport. Oyster card options have rendered university journeys more affordable. London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, with fares differing based on distance and train operator. The allure of Central London’s attractions drives living expenses upwards, but sharing a room with a buddy helped in reducing rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and age brackets, which can be more challenging with private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities enhance its cultural richness, presenting a variety of neighbourhoods. International students frequently seek familiarity reminiscent of home. Southall in West London boasts a sizeable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End showcases Chinese restaurants, retail outlets, and cultural activities. These serve as examples of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new home, embrace the city’s varied accommodation choices, delve into cultural pockets, and relish the convenience and vibrancy London has to offer.