Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gathered several insights. London buzzes with life, showcasing not only its myriad living arrangements but also its vibrant neighborhoods. Students find themselves with multiple options readily available. Both student residences and private living spaces provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations remotely, highlighting amenities and access to public transit.
During my quest for a room, my priority was to secure a location in Central London, allowing me to be near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, where the first two zones are the most central. London’s transportation infrastructure is superb, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying mobility and travel between zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses since commuting across zones could incur costs of upwards of £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have provided more affordable ways to commute to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The central part of London boasts major attractions, which consequently drives up living expenses. Luckily, I was at university with a friend, and we shared a room, which helped us save significantly on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds sharing my age group, a mix that’s often less accessible in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was a priority for me. Familiar supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines daily tasks, especially during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be complex. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of belonging to their home culture while in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian presence, boasting Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton stands out for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. The heart of London’s West End, Chinatown, is a dynamic area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London ultimately depend on your preferences and requirements. To locate a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.