Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private residences provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective homes online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transport network is outstanding, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance traveled and the fare system of each train provider. Central London is host to numerous attractions, resulting in high living expenses. Fortunately, I shared a room with a friend from university, which considerably reduced our rental cost. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private housing.
Being located near grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a range of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire to find connections to their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling locale filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this remarkable city has to offer.