Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of living in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I’ve gained some knowledge during my stay. London is an energetic city, not just due to its diverse living arrangements but also its varied communities. Students have plenty of options available. Both university-affiliated housing and private residences offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and communal spaces, studio flats, and shared accommodations. Local students can swiftly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, along with their facilities and accessibility to public transport.
As I searched for a residence, my goal was to find a room in Central London for easy access to key 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 features a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to keep my travel costs low since inter-zonal journeys could run as high as £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. However, the oyster card has made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, spanning outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance and each train company’s fare regulations. The high living costs in Central London’s premier attractions are notable. Thankfully, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages, which is a blend that may be harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities form a core part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comforts of home within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.