Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not appear significant, I’ve acquired some understanding during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its range of living arrangements but also thanks to the varied communities that reside here. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones simple. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can go up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching farther zones outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped significantly lower our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, providing a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for familiarity with their home cultures. Southall in West London houses a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End showcases a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of vibrant neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.