Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy period, I’ve gathered some knowledge throughout this duration. London is a dynamic city, not only regarding its array of living arrangements but also its diverse communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential living spaces online, review the amenities provided, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can go up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are a result of its major attractions. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to achieve in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London is no easy task. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, offering a vibrant assortment of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home countries while in London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and spirited music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely some examples of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal locations to inhabit in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its living arrangements, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.