Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone since relocating to London. While this duration might not seem extensive, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private living arrangements provide diverse choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future lodgings online, assess amenities, and discover the closest public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I aspired to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to major attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates effortless navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted for walking short distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ based on distance and the fare systems of each train operator. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rent expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, looking to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less prevalent in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich palette of diverse areas. Many international students in London yearn for the comforts of their home country. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal regions to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.