Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Though this timeframe isn’t long, I have gathered some reflections during my stay. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its diverse living arrangements but also by the various communities that call it home. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both student housing and private rentals offer facilities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential accommodations online, examine the features, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to live, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, nightlife, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones effortless. I aimed to minimize travel costs, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commuting more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The central area’s main attractions contribute to high living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to cohabit, significantly cutting down on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix less easily found in private residences.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London seek a touch of familiarity from their home nation. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with countless Chinese restaurants, retail outlets, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.