Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights during this time. London is an energetic metropolis, not solely due to its extensive lodging alternatives, but also because of its varied communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private accommodations provide a range of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, review the amenities available, and assess their closeness to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to traverse and travel across zones. I aimed to mitigate my travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London houses significant attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Fortunately, as I was studying with a friend, we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that would have been more difficult to find in private dwellings.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to inhabit is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their homeland within this city. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community offering various Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton stands out for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-based neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London greatly depend on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the city’s accommodation offerings, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.