Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve accumulated several insights. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its array of living arrangements but also because of its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous possibilities. Both student residences and private accommodations offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, including the amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as moving between zones may cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have enhanced affordability for university travel. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, extending to areas outside central London, with fares fluctuating based on distance and the fare policies of different train companies. Central London is costly due to its primary attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a close friend, and we agreed to share a room, dramatically lowering rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies accelerates errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich assortment of diverse areas. Many international students seek connections with their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locales to live in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. As you search for a new residence, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation selections, investigate cultural hotspots, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.