Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t a lengthy duration, I have garnered some perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide array of living arrangements but also because of its multicultural populations. Scholars have a vast range of selections available. Both university housing and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and communal living. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, verify amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. To cut down on transport expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card choices have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Plus, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground infrastructure, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare system. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its major attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us significantly lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student living arrangements to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, presenting a varied tapestry of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is an animated area filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighbourhoods.
The most desirable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.