Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not feel like a lengthy period, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its eclectic living arrangements but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to evaluate potential housing options online, showcasing the amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aspired to rent a room in Central London for easy access to prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and move between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since cross-zone travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted for walking short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to a high cost of living. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, significantly lowering our rent expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s living arrangements, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.