Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Though it’s a brief period, I’ve acquired some knowledge throughout this time. London is an energetic city, not just in terms of its wide-ranging living arrangements but also for its multifaceted communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student housing and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment visits, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including amenities and accessibility to public transport.
While on the hunt for a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel among zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside of Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare regulations of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we elected to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to bond with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic populations are a crucial component of its cultural environment, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, at the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant district filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its living arrangements, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.