Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of living in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic city, characterized by its varied living arrangements as well as its communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore future housing online, examine amenities, and locate nearby public transportation links.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to move around and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk for shorter distances instead of taking public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of individual train companies. The substantial cost of living in Central London is attributed to its numerous attractions. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of connection to their home country in London. Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End presents an array of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural activities. These examples illustrate the richness of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.