Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone living in London. Though it may not be an extensive period, I’ve acquired various insights throughout this duration. London is a vibrant city, presenting an extensive array of living arrangements and a mix of communities. Students have countless options available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential living spaces online, along with their amenities and proximity to public transit.
While I was on the lookout for accommodation, I aimed to find a room to rent in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city encompasses six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s remarkable public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures easy movement and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Living costs in Central London are steep due to its main attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while going to university greatly alleviated rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to discover in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, providing varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of connection to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new dwelling in London, appreciate the variety and richness of accommodation possibilities, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.