Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I have gathered several observations throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering not only a variety of living arrangements but also the diverse communities that inhabit it. Students have numerous options available right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings present multiple choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, review available facilities, and consider their distance from public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. Tariffs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train operator’s pricing structure. The leading attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies accelerates errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no simple task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse locales. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, shines as a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London rely on your personal preferences and needs. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.