Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve picked up several insights. London pulses with energy, providing a variety of housing opportunities and communities. Students can find numerous options, such as student residences and private lodgings featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared rooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, examine amenities, and discover public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to stay close to key sights, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the central areas. London’s transportation network is superb, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach regions outside the Underground, stretching into zones beyond central London. Fare costs fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structures of different train companies. The high living expenses in Central London are matched by its key attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room and cut down on rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds within the same age group, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The closeness to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic groups are vital to its cultural identity, providing a range of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their native lands. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocers, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These serve as instances of community neighbourhoods.
Your ideal areas in London will depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence, take advantage of London’s varied housing choices, delve into cultural districts, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.