Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently marked nine months in London, I’ve gained various insights, despite it not being a long time. London is an energetic metropolis, rich in accommodation choices and a tapestry of communities. Students can select from a broad range of options. Both dormitory-style and private rentals feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, examining features and proximity to public transport.
For my living arrangement, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social scenes, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London’s public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for smooth navigation and travel between zones. To minimize commuting expenses, which may reach £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options help lower commuting costs for university-related travels. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas outside the Underground system. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare regulations set by each train operator. The popularity of Central London’s attractions significantly contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, leading to a considerable reduction in rent costs. I opted for accommodations affiliated with multiple colleges to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix less common in private rentals.
It was essential for me to live near grocery stores. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities within London are vital to its cultural richness, providing a vibrant array of areas. Numerous international students strive to find a connection to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a prominent South Asian community, filled with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the bustling West End features lively surroundings complete with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are simply a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on a quest for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s varied accommodation selections, delve into cultural sectors, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.