Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained several perspectives throughout this experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its range of housing choices but also for its varied communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to examine possible lodgings online, including their amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near primary attractions, social locations, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigation and travel between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel could amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, leading us to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and of similar age, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during the exam period.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural identity, providing a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a connection to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area packed with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to live in London vary based on personal preferences and necessities. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.