Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While my time here has been brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its varied living arrangements but also because of its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both university accommodations and private rentals include options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily arrange apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is divided into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travels between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since cross-zone travel can total £5.25 per day. I prefer walking for short distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into regions outside central London. Fares for cross-zone travel on these services depend on the distance and the fare system of each train operator. The high living costs around central London’s main attractions can be daunting. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared accommodation, which considerably reduced our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was a priority for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of connection to their homeland. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling locale full of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London truly depend on your personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, take the opportunity to appreciate the diversity and abundance of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the conveniences and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.