Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it might not be an extended period, I’ve acquired some insights. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students are presented with an array of options. Both student residences and private rentals feature a range of alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared accommodations and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can seamlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, verify amenities, and identify nearby public transport connections.
During my hunt for a place to stay, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant tourist spots, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The high living costs in central London stem from its major attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which led to considerable rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during the exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing diverse residential areas. Numerous international students seek a connection to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian populace featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, serves as a lively hub filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are influenced by your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, embrace the diverse and rich array of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.