Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months living in London. Though it may not seem long, I’ve gained a considerable amount of experience. London is lively, not only for its variety of living arrangements but also for its diverse communities. Students have an array of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city features six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy commutes across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commuting can cost up to £5.25 per day. Instead of taking a bus or tube for short distances, I chose to walk. Nevertheless, oyster card options have cheaper rates for university travel. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services serve areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond the central region. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each rail operator. Central London is home to major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I shared accommodations with a friend while at university, significantly reducing rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential retail outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a wealth of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the West End is filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, retail spaces, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of vibrant community areas.
The best neighborhoods for living in London will vary based on individual interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, appreciate the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and thrill this exceptional city offers.