Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its eclectic living arrangements but also for its various communities. Students have abundant options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals present a multitude of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, assess the amenities, and identify the closest public transport links.
In my quest for a living space, I was keen on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a stellar public transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since transferring between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. Consequently, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and the fare system of each rail company. Central London encompasses major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would be more challenging in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting diverse areas. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native culture in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End features an array of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. As you embark on your search for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living arrangements, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.