Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may not be a lengthy time frame, I have gained some valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a wide variety of living arrangements and lively neighborhoods. Students have an array of options available, such as student residences and private flats featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio units, and house shares. Home students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential rentals online, check available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can amount to as much as £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Oyster card options have also made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London, with ticket prices varying by distance and the fare structures of different train companies. The prime attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, studying with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets, a scenario less probable in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its own challenges. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, creating a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international students look for elements of their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples represent just a few of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and take pleasure in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.