Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its dynamic communities. Students have a wide array of options to choose from. Both student residences and private housing present different possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, considerably lowering our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play an important role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for the comforts of their homeland here. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, 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 center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples represent just a few of the vibrant community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.