Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months in London. Though it may not seem extensive, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling city, recognized for its variety of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students enjoy an array of nearby options, with student residences and private housing presenting choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students are able to utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse prospective homes online, assess amenities, and locate public transport connections in the vicinity.
During my quest for housing, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London’s robust transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. To reduce commuting expenses, since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Oyster card solutions have rendered university travel more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, covering zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The substantial living costs in Central London correlate with its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, enabling us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and ages, a task that would have been more challenging through private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities significantly enrich its cultural landscape, presenting diverse residential areas. Numerous international students seek connections to their homelands. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian population, with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End features a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new accommodations in London, welcome its diverse living options, investigate cultural communities, and relish the accessibility and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.