Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gained some insights. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private housing offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, including facilities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to major sites, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London boasts a superb transport system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to traverse and commute between zones. I sought to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London features prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential places like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural identity, creating varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home country within London. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its living options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.