Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary in London. Though it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a lot of insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including features and access to public transit.
During my quest for a place, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent sites, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a top-notch transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can be as high as £5.25 per day. Hence, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services traverse beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high cost of living in Central London is attributable to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, substantially cutting down on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mixture that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam time.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the epicenter of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new abode in London, cherish the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.