Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a lengthy period, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just due to its varied living arrangements but also because of its diverse communities. Students have numerous options available. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home-based students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective living spaces online, along with amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London, allowing me to be near significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London boasts an exceptional transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as crossing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services serve areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare policy. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to high living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds who are of similar age, a blend that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood is no small feat. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. The majority of international students in London often seek out the comforts of their homeland. Southall, located in West London, has a considerable South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. To establish a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.