Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this might not be a significant duration, I’ve acquired some perspectives. London is an energetic city, presenting a plethora of lodging selections and various cultures. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private lodgings offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily coordinate apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, including details on amenities and their closeness to public transport.
During my search for a living space, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel and movement among the zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commuting more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s specific fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly minimizing rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various cultures and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural identity, providing a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a connection to their home country while in London. Southall, situated in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a few instances of neighborhood communities.
The ideal locations for living in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its lodging alternatives, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.