Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem like a long time, I’ve gained several insights throughout my experience. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have an array of options available to them. Both student housing and private rentals offer features like ensuite and suite restrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up viewings for apartments, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to investigate potential lodging online, including nearby amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to main attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London features an excellent transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation between zones simple and efficient. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train company. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is a combination harder to come by in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is no easy task. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural mosaic, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few of the community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are dependent on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and bask in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.