Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period is not particularly extensive, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its wide range of living arrangements but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students find themselves with numerous avenues available. Both student housing and private rentals provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective accommodations online, featuring amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superior transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement within the city and between zones. To mitigate travel expenses, which can accumulate to £5.25 daily, I opted for walking shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have further reduced university commuting costs. Besides that, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Pricing for these services vary based on distance and individual train companies’ fare structures. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, enrolling in university with a friend permitted us to share a room and cut down on rent. I found intercollegiate student accommodations preferable for connecting with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a feat that would be challenging through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting diverse localities. Many international students desire a sense of home familiarity. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music ambiance. Chinatown in the West End boasts various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its accommodation possibilities, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.