Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I completed nine months in London. While it may not be an extended period, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London pulses with life, not only due to its varied housing choices but also because of its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their doorstep. Both university accommodation and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, as well as shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective housing online, assess amenities, and locate public transport connections.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s public transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement between different zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. Thus, I decided to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground’s reach, covering zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone transit on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its numerous attractions. Thankfully, I studied with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is less prevalent in private dwellings.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially around exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nation in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community filled with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling enclave featuring Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for staying in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.