Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residence in London. While it may not seem like a long time, I’ve gathered some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing a vast array of living options and varied communities. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, including features and access to public transit.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare model. Central London’s principal attractions contribute to the high cost of living. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, leading to a substantial reduction in rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that’s harder to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The diverse ethnic communities are vital to the city’s cultural landscape, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a connection to their homeland while in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave featuring numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a sampling of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When hunting for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.