Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its plethora of living arrangements but also due to its diverse communities. Students possess numerous options at their disposal. Both student accommodations and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, contributing to higher living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that’s often more challenging to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. The ethnic communities of London are integral to its cultural landscape, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their homeland. Southall in West London features a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.