Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge in this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its various living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their prospective lodgings online, assess the amenities available, and understand their accessibility to public transportation.
In my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a robust transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as travelling between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered travel more economical for university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend coverage beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train service. The substantial living costs in Central London can be a challenge due to its major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, with more budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London form an essential part of its cultural identity, offering a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall, situated in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the vibrant West End of London, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and necessities. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living arrangements, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.