Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached a nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration might seem brief, I’ve acquired several perspectives throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its vast selection of living arrangements but also due to the diverse communities that inhabit it. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential residences online, inspect available facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to lease a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, covering zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are due to its major attractions. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is trickier 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 economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough decision. London’s ethnic communities are key components of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse areas. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These examples highlight just a few community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. In your search for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and richness of available accommodation, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.