Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gathered some perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, not merely for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students enjoy an abundance of choices at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private housing provide numerous alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can promptly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London for proximity to main attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal transportation can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground, extending into areas outside central London. Pricing for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates depending on distance and the fare regulations of each train operator. The high cost of living in Central London’s prime attractions is notable. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly cutting down our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less commonly found in private residences.
Being close to grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural fabric, contributing a vibrant array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for a touch of home in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian presence with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is an animated enclave filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.