Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve gained considerable insights despite the relatively short duration. This vibrant city is not only known for its varied housing alternatives but also for its rich communities. Students have a plethora of options available right at their convenience. Accommodations, both student-oriented and private, feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio environments, and shared housing. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their future homes online, assess facilities, and determine their distance from public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel across different zones. In my case, I preferred to minimize travel expenses as crossing zones could amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to cover shorter distances on foot instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, options with an oyster card have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Plus, London Overground and National Rail services extend services beyond the Underground, reaching outskirts beyond central zones. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare regulations from each train company. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to higher living costs. Luckily, I attended the university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which substantially decreased our rental expenses. I preferred accommodations connected with other colleges, aiming to network with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s often harder to locate in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. The ethnic communities in London are essential to its cultural identity, creating a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of their native cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community offering Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area replete with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the ease and thrill this extraordinary city offers.