Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the milestone of nine months residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gained a wealth of knowledge during this period. London is an energetic city, presenting a plethora of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students possess an array of options at their fingertips, including student residences and private housing featuring alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, verify available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies travel and movement between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare scheme of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to steep living costs. Luckily, enrolling at university with a friend permitted us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The convenience of having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is not an easy task. The city’s diverse ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural richness, creating a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in London’s West End is an energetic enclave filled with a multitude of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best areas to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the abundance of accommodation choices, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.