Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my stay in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gathered a fair amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not just by its varied living arrangements but also by its dynamic communities. Students find numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, examine facilities, and evaluate distance to public transportation.
During my search for housing, I intended to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across the city and movement between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London boasts several major attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I joined the university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a demographic blend that is often less accessible in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for my lifestyle. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial venues such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on chores, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, creating a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is an energetic hub filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, stores, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are dictated by personal interests and requirements. When you embark on a quest for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its living arrangements, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.