Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the end of my ninth month residing in London. While it’s a brief duration, I’ve amassed some valuable perspectives throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its varied living arrangements but also because of its dynamic communities. Students are presented with a wealth of choices right at their doorstep. Both student halls and private housing offer an assortment of alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring potential residences online, checking amenities, and considering closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a living arrangement, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which enhance navigation and travel across zones. I wanted to minimize transport expenses since travel between zones can cost up to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central city. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, nearby saves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, providing a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home cultures within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric areas.
The optimal places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. To find your new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.