Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. Though it might appear brief, this period has been quite enlightening. London buzzes with life, not only due to its variety of housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students find a wealth of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide various amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, examine facilities, and discover the closest public transport access.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses minimal since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside of central London. Fare rates for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s specific fare system. Living expenses in central London are elevated due to the abundance of attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London significantly contribute to its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in London’s West End, is a bustling area featuring Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London are determined by your preferences and requirements. When looking for accommodation in London, appreciate the variety and richness of housing options, dive into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city offers.