Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of living in London. Although nine months might not feel particularly long, I’ve acquired several observations throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely regarding its diverse living arrangements but also for the dynamic communities that flourish here. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings offer various choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential living spaces virtually, evaluating facilities, and considering proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I set out to rent a room in Central London to enjoy easy access to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel between zones straightforward and accessible. Personally, I wanted to minimize transportation costs since traveling between zones can charge up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have eased the financial burden of commuting to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate in accordance with distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. Central London attracts significant crowds, which drives living expenses higher. Thankfully, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, substantially lowering our rent. I preferred student accommodations across institutions, hoping to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living conveniently near grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential establishments such as grocery stores and pharmacies saves time when running errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in poses a challenge. The ethnic communities of London form a vital component of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse localities. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of connection with their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a considerable South Asian population, featuring Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and traditional boutique shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with multiple Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrate just a fragment of the community neighborhoods available.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, dive into cultural neighborhoods, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.