Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I’ve gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to the array of housing options but also because of its rich tapestry of communities. Students have an abundance of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, showcasing amenities and their accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, nightlife, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 daily, I opted for walking short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services connect to areas outside the Underground network. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare system. Living costs in Central London are elevated due to its significant attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, resulting in substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s harder to discover in private rentals.
It was essential for me to live near grocery stores. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines everyday errands, especially during examination periods.
Choosing a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities form an integral aspect of its cultural identity, providing a diverse tapestry of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music scene. Nestled in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling enclave filled with countless Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal residential areas in London are contingent upon your individual interests and requirements. As you seek a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.