Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a wide array of living arrangements and lively communities. Students have numerous options available right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private accommodations come with amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, review facilities, and evaluate accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six layered zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitate easy navigation and travel between zones. I wanted to minimize my commuting expenses, as traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 per day, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its key attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups, a feat that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was a priority for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, showcasing a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centered neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, relish the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.