Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of living in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve gained several perspectives throughout this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options. Both student residences and private rentals provide diverse choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and private rooms, studio flats, and shared housing. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, assess amenities, and investigate their vicinity to public transit.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones representing the most central areas. London features a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I was keen on minimizing travel expenses, as traversing between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare policies. The principal attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student residences, anticipating interactions with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination more challenging to discover in private accommodations.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their native lands. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary depending on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.