Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration is not particularly long, I have gained several observations. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide an assortment of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, inclusive of features and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a place to reside, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling straightforward navigation and travel across zones. I wanted to keep travel expenses low as inter-zone trips can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. However, the oyster card options have made university journeys more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Pricing for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates according to distance and each train company’s fare arrangement. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, greatly lowering rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, complemented by budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies reduces time spent on errands, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s diverse ethnic communities are key to its cultural tapestry, showcasing an array of vibrant neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for a connection to their homeland. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation selections, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this amazing city.