Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its rich tapestry of communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student residences and private housing provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, complete with details on amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to main attractions, communal hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy transit between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can reach £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect regions beyond the Underground system, extending to areas outside central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Living expenses are elevated due to Central London’s prominent attractions. Thankfully, I had a university friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is harder to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential amenities like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The diverse ethnic communities in London form a crucial part of its cultural identity, resulting in a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a touch of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is known for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling zone with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.