Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem like an extended time, I have gathered quite a few experiences during my stay. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its wide range of living arrangements but also due to its eclectic communities. Students have a myriad of options available to them. Both student housing and private accommodations offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, examine available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an outstanding transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zone travel may cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The costs of living in central London are notably high due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, significantly lowering our rent costs. I preferred student accommodations from different colleges, hoping to connect with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic populations are vital to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and thriving music scene. Chinatown, found in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.