Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may appear brief, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives in this period. London is a dynamic city, characterized not only by its extensive accommodation choices but also by its lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student housing and private accommodations provide a variety of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
While looking for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones effortless. Personally, I intended to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network, serving areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare system. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to cohabit, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with students from different backgrounds and similar ages, a balance that is often harder to achieve in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on daily tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood in London is quite a task. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of their home cultures in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and shops for traditional attire. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical activities. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These merely represent a handful of community neighborhoods.
The finest places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation offerings, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.