Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not be extensive, I’ve gained a fair amount of insight. London is a vibrant city, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings provide an array of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential homes online, check facilities, and locate the closest public transport connections.
During my hunt for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate housing, aspiring to connect with students from varied backgrounds and a similar age group, a combination that’s often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities significantly enrich its cultural landscape, providing a wealth of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London crave the comforts of their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation alternatives, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.