Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not be an extensive period, I’ve gained significant insights. London is an energetic metropolis that presents a variety of housing options and lively communities. Students have an abundance of selections, from student residences to private lodgings, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, verify amenities, and locate public transport connections.
In my quest for a suitable room, I aimed for a location in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, enables easy navigation and travel between these zones. I sought to minimize commuting costs since inter-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. Consequently, I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside of central London. Fares fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of different train companies. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, resulting in substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a challenge when dealing with private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities in London form an essential part of its cultural identity, offering diverse residential areas. Numerous international students look for familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown in London’s West End boasts numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home, embrace the wide-ranging accommodation options London offers, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the city’s convenience and vibrancy.