Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my ninth month of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I’ve gained considerable insight. London is an energetic city, marked not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private residences provide choices like ensuite and suite-style bathrooms, communal and private accommodations, studio flats, and shared households. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel across and between the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commutes for university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the core of London. Ticket prices for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to notable attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly alleviated rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that can be more challenging to find in private rental properties.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also exist. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines time spent on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. London’s ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a touch of home in their surroundings. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the bustling heart of London’s West End, serves as a vibrant hub packed with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These illustrate just a glimpse of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a place to live in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.