Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear lengthy, I’ve gathered various insights during this time. London is a vibrant city, renowned not only for its diverse accommodation choices but also for its rich communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Meanwhile, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The city’s main attractions contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly alleviating rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant mix of different neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall, in West London, features a large South Asian presence, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When searching for new living arrangements in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation alternatives, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.