Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not be an extensive duration, I’ve garnered a substantial amount of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also its thriving communities. Students have a wide array of options at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals present various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom support international students in exploring prospective accommodations online, verifying amenities, and gauging proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I set my sights on renting a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, vibrant social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones simple. I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I frequently opt to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high cost of living in Central London stems from its prominent attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural framework, presenting a rich assortment of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home country. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the richness and diversity of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.