Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might seem brief, I have gathered several insights in this period. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students find an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Student housing and private rentals provide a range of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore their potential homes online, complete with details about amenities and transit accessibility.
During my search for accommodation, my priority was to find a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the central areas. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenditures, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk for shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure set by each train company. Living costs are high in Central London due to its numerous attractions. Thankfully, I had the company of a friend at university, and we chose to share a room, resulting in significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student housing to socialize with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic groups in London play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, creating a spectrum of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek environments that reflect their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend largely on personal interests and preferences. When on the hunt for a new dwelling in London, embrace the city’s cultural richness and variety in accommodation, delve into diverse neighborhoods, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.