Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of living in London. Although it may not be a long duration, I have gained significant insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing a variety of housing possibilities and active communities. Students have numerous selections, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, review amenities, and evaluate the closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation throughout the city and travel between zones. I aspired to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting can total £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs associated with central London’s main attractions are evident. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a feat that would be more challenging with private properties.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a taste of their home culture in London. Southall in West London has a large South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End features numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community districts.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.