Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I have gathered some valuable understandings. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its wide range of living arrangements but also because of its vibrant communities. Students have a myriad of options available right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in previewing their future homes online, which includes amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to significant attractions, social hubs, and the campuses of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two recognized as the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement throughout the city and between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. The fare for inter-zone travel on these services varies based on the distance and pricing structure of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London’s key attractions can be daunting. Thankfully, I attended university with a companion, and we chose to share a room, which contributed to significant savings on rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often trickier to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retail stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home culture. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, boutiques, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to live in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing varieties, explore cultural enclaves, and enjoy the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.