Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked the completion of nine months in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained invaluable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its variety of living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with abundant options right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private residences feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and co-living arrangements. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom empower international students to explore future housing online, assess facilities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones could set one back by up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, even stretching to zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The costs of living in Central London are influenced by its major attractions. Thankfully, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, yielding significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores close by was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich tapestry of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity akin to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is brimming with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When pursuing a new residence in London, embrace its diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural niches, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.