Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have acquired a considerable amount of knowledge. London thrives as a bustling metropolis, not only due to its variety of living arrangements but also its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared housing. Domestic students can easily schedule viewing appointments, while international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential places to live online, examine amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prominent sites, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the heart of the city found in zones one and two. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, considering inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, connecting to areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing system of each railway company. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its prime attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to combine living expenses by sharing a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I preferred college student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age, a combination that is less accessible in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to fundamental shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural landscape, creating a rich diversity across neighborhoods. Numerous international scholars seek some resemblance to their homelands in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and active music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of richly woven community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace its diverse and plentiful accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy offered by this extraordinary city.