Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months living in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with a plethora of options in close proximity. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, evaluate amenities, and identify local public transport connections.
During my search for a living space, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, provides a straightforward way to move around and traverse between zones. To minimize travel expenses, considering inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have helped reduce commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, servicing areas outside the central zone. Fares for journeys between zones on these services vary based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The costs of living near Central London’s attractions can be steep. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and considerably reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, eager to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and of similar age, a combination that is often rarer in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. The common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on running errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting diverse areas. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal districts to inhabit in London hinge on your personal preferences and requirements. To secure your new residence in London, embrace its wide-ranging and rich living alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.