Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Although that may appear brief, I have gathered several observations throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its diverse living arrangements but also by its rich tapestry of cultures. Students enjoy a wide array of options. Both university housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange for apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, complete with their amenities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to ensure proximity to prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it simple to navigate and traverse between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as travelling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. Instead of taking buses or the tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, accessing zones outside of central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London houses major tourist attractions, which leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to cohabit a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s often more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save valuable time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural plurality, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native cultures while in London. Southall, in West London, features a prominent South Asian community along with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few snapshots of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its living options, investigate cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city offers.