Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone living in London. While it may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of experience. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated for its varied living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and privately rented places offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective homes online, including service features and transport links.
In my quest for a residence, my objective was to secure a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit network, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel may reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, options such as the oyster card have made university trips more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and the fare structures of train operators. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. The common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are central to its cultural identity, showcasing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, is an animated area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.