Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While nine months might not appear substantial, I have gained some perspectives throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide array of living arrangements but also by its rich mix of communities. Students have plenty of alternatives available to them. Both student housing and private living spaces offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment inspections, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to view potential homes online, along with the facilities available and proximity to transport links.
In my hunt for a residence, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to popular attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal transport can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood for living can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a connection to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, embrace the rich diversity of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.