Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive duration, I’ve acquired a few perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students enjoy a plethora of options close at hand. Both student residences and private rentals present numerous choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom empower international students to browse potential lodgings online, evaluate amenities, and determine the closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, placing me in proximity to key attractions, vibrant social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as commuting between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train provider. The high living expenses associated with Central London’s major attractions are a reality. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies within close proximity saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their native culture while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian demographic featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. The bustling Chinatown located in the center of London’s West End is a vibrant district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of neighborhood examples.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. While seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.