Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently completed nine months in London. While it might not appear lengthy, I have gained considerable knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a myriad of options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and independent accommodations provide diverse choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to visualize prospective living spaces online, review facilities, and locate the nearest public transport routes.
During my hunt for a residence, I sought a room in Central London for proximity to key landmarks, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s superb transport infrastructure, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes moving around and traveling between zones convenient. I aimed to keep travel costs down, as crossing zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, options like the Oyster card have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structures of different train operators. The expenses of living in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket options feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively musical atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers a multitude of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.