Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired substantial insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its array of living options but also its multifaceted communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private rentals provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while tools such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine prospective housing online, review facilities, and evaluate the distance to public transit.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. London’s transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and commuting between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, thus I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Moreover, services like London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Pricing for these services varies based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs in central London are influenced by its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a feat that would be more challenging with private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential services such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of familiarity from their home country while in London. Southall in West London is known for a substantial South Asian populace, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, offers a plethora of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.