Penned by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary living in London. Although this time frame may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic city, known not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student housing and private rentals provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while international students can access websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, examine amenities, and gauge distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I was focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel across zones. I favored walking short distances to cut down on travel expenses since commuting between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made traveling to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Prices for these transport services differ based on distance and the fare structures of individual train operators. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its many major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, offering a colorful array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a connection to their homeland while in 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 vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London greatly depend on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.