Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of living in London. While it might not appear extensive, I’ve acquired several insights throughout this duration. London is a vibrant metropolis, recognized not only for its wide range of living arrangements but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students may utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse prospective accommodations online, verify available amenities, and evaluate the closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric rings, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables straightforward movement and transport between zones. Personally, I sought to reduce travel expenses as inter-zonal transit could cost up to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending their coverage beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train operator’s fare policy. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, considerably lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.