Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. While my time here isn’t extensive, I’ve gained substantial knowledge. London is dynamic, providing a variety of housing options and lively communities. Students can choose from an array of accommodations, including student housing, private residences, ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students have the convenience of easily arranging viewings, while international students can explore platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse online listings, assess amenities, and locate public transport connections.
During my search for a residence, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the central areas. London’s transportation network, comprising the tube, buses, and trains, facilitates easy commuting. I aimed to lower my travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted for walking shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Using Oyster cards has reduced commuting costs for university. London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground, with fares depending on distance and the train operator. While living in Central London can be pricey, sharing a room with a friend allowed us to save on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, which is often more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential. Regular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, whereas more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities enhance its cultural landscape, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community filled with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End presents an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrate community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on your preferences and requirements. As you seek housing, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy the city offers.