Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although it’s not an extended duration, my experiences have been plentiful. London is lively, providing a variety of housing choices and communities. Students have numerous options available, including student residences, private accommodations like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can explore platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view listings online, examine facilities, and locate transportation links.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, vibrant areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the most central areas being zones one and two. London’s transit system, which encompasses the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates travel across zones. To reduce travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network. Ticket prices differ depending on distance and the train operator’s fare policies. Living costs are elevated near Central London’s popular sites. Luckily, I was enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which helped reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age ranges, which is more difficult when renting privately.
Being close to supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural landscape, creating a wide array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean cultural scene and music. Chinatown in the West End presents a wealth of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home, take advantage of London’s various housing options, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that the city offers.