Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy period, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is a dynamic city, notable not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student accommodation and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, examine amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
During my quest for a place to reside, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, accessing zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high demand for central London’s major attractions drives living costs up. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, which would have been tougher through private rentals.
Being situated near grocery stores was significant for me. Common supermarkets feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall in West London houses a large South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, offers a multitude of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to inhabit in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.