Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it’s a relatively short period, I’ve obtained some valuable perspectives during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of living arrangements but also because of its multicultural societies. Students have a myriad of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can browse websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible living arrangements online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to notable landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zone fares can reach up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university less costly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. The prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare systems of each train operator. The high living costs associated with central London’s prominent attractions are noteworthy. Luckily, I had a university friend with whom I decided to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, something that would have been more challenging with private properties.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, providing a rich blend of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area teeming with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new place to call home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.