Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t a lengthy duration, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its wide array of living arrangements but also for its rich mix of communities. Students have countless options available. Both student residences and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite restrooms, shared and individual rooms, studios, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, along with details about their features and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to traverse and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize transportation costs since traveling between zones could rack up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion enabled us to split a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. The ethnic communities in London are essential to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich locales.
The ideal places to reside in London are dependent on personal interests and requirements. When looking for new housing in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.