Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a bustling metropolis, offering not only a variety of living arrangements but also dynamic communities. Students have numerous options available. Both student accommodation and private housing provide different choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house sharing. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom let international students explore their prospective residences online, assess the facilities provided, and identify the nearest public transport connections.
During my quest for a place to reside, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies moving around and traveling between zones. I sought to minimize my commuting expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students of various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend harder to discover in private listings.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets incorporate Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a key component of its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire a sense of connection to their home country. Southall in West London is known for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.