Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve gained considerable insight. London is an exciting metropolis, not only due to its wide range of living options but also its vibrant communities. Students enjoy numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view potential homes online, showcasing amenities and distances to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to main attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the innermost zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation network is outstanding, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel between zones. I endeavored to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university trips more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail routes connect areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs in central London stem from the area’s major attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while pursuing university studies led to significant rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Nearness to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural essence, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of belonging with familiar cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional garment shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, take advantage of its diverse accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.