Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered a few observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its array of living arrangements but also its multicultural populace. Students have a wealth of options available. Student residences and private living spaces offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom provide international students the chance to browse prospective housing online, check amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my pursuit of accommodation, I specifically sought a room to rent in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing and traveling between zones straightforward. I made an effort to minimize travel expenses, as crossing between zones can accumulate costs of up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, options available via an Oyster card have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground system to zones beyond central London. The fares for these services are subject to change depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train service. The high cost of living in Central London is a result of its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which substantially lowered our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable chains like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time during errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is quite a task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich blend of diverse districts. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home cultures while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on the search for a new residence in London, it’s worthwhile to appreciate the diversity and abundance of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.