Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this might not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely due to its varied living arrangements but also because of its rich tapestry of communities. Students find a myriad of choices right at their feet. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential residences online, examine facilities, and discover nearby public transit options.
In my quest for a living space, I intended to lease a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a commendable transport network, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 a day. I chose to stroll short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made traveling to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas beyond the Underground’s reach, extending to zones outside central London. Charges for travel between zones on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to co-rent a room, which considerably reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private estates.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, supplemented by budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver during errands, particularly in exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, providing a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their homelands in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and shops for traditional apparel. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of communal neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. As you search for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.