Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have marked nine months of residence in London. While this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered some perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an array of living arrangements and spirited communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals include selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared as well as private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, featuring amenities and distance to public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, I focused on securing a room in Central London, close to key sights, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for effortless movement and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made student commutes more economical. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and each rail provider’s pricing structure. Central London’s main attractions drive up living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation costs, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student residences to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is generally more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek to find a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the heart of the West End is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are influenced by personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.