Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Even though it’s been a short period, I have gained substantial insights during this time. London is a dynamic city, known not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students are presented with a plethora of options right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, evaluate amenities, and gauge distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traversing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced university commute costs considerably. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to the distance traveled and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its numerous major attractions. Fortunately, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly alleviated our rent expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to achieve in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London play a pivotal role in its cultural vibrancy, displaying a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures in London. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional garment stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, boasts a wealth of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your personal interests and needs. To discover a new home in London, welcome the diversity and depth of its housing choices, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.