Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have gathered several perspectives during this period. London is a dynamic city, recognized for its varied living arrangements and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential homes online, examining available facilities, and evaluating closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for effortless movement and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zone journeys could amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, studying alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek to connect with aspects of their homeland. Southall, located in West London, contains a substantial South Asian community offering Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean populace and vibrant music environment. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave abundant with Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and variety of housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.