Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. While not an extensive duration, I have gathered a few observations. London is an energetic city, not only regarding its diverse living arrangements but also concerning its multifaceted communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to explore potential residences online, along with the amenities provided and their closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major attractions, cultural hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains that make it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The central attractions in London contribute significantly to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which notably lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for familiarity with their native countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.