Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this is not a lengthy span, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not only regarding its wide range of living arrangements but also due to its varied communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private rentals provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential living spaces online, revealing both the amenities included and their proximity to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I intended to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, 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 network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes moving around and traveling between zones straightforward. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can be as high as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on daily tasks, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a handful of examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its living options, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.