Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve gained quite a lot of knowledge. London is an energetic city, not only because of its varied living arrangements but also due to its communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my pursuit of a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since traveling across zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced costs for university commutes. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside of the Underground network, connecting to outer zones. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Living costs are high near Central London’s main attractions. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly helped in reducing rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging with private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s cultural communities are crucial to its societal tapestry, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community filled with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant area hosting Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new living space in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.