Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although it might appear brief, I’ve acquired various insights in this duration. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its myriad accommodation choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both shared student housing and private rentals present possibilities including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with the first two zones being the primary centers. London’s transport network, which incorporates the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to limit travel expenses, as travel between zones can reach up to £5.25 each day. Thus, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, options with an oyster card have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The cost of living in Central London is notably high due to its major attractions. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is more challenging to locate in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital places such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, provides countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge upon personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on the search for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and wealth of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.