Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. While it may seem like a short duration, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is dynamic, not only in its array of housing options but also within its various communities. Students have numerous selections right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover links to public transportation.
During my search for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, including the underground, buses, and trains, simplifies navigating the city. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day, I opted to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Prices for these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The living costs near Central London’s major attractions can be steep. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with individuals from varied backgrounds and a similar age, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are central to its cultural identity, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few of the community clusters.
The ideal places to live in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence, take advantage of the diversity and richness of London’s housing opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.