Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve acquired several observations throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals present a range of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, individual and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their prospective lodgings online, detailing available amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to maintain proximity to prominent landmarks, vibrant social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is made up of six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional public transport system, including the tube, buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as commuting between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing bus or tube services. Nonetheless, oyster card options have greatly reduced the cost of commuting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, connecting with areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes differ depending on the distance and the fare policies of the respective train companies. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating encountering peers from various backgrounds within the same age range, a combination that’s often more challenging to come by in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to call home can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich blend of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London look for the familiarity of their home nations. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population, along with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with countless Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London largely depend on your personal interests and necessities. As you navigate the search for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing possibilities, delve into the cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.