Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of living in London. Though this timeframe isn’t extensive, I’ve gained valuable perspectives. London is an energetic city, not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students have a wealth of options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students are able to schedule apartment viewings with ease, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to browse prospective living options online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transportation.
During my accommodation search, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel and movement between zones. I sought to keep travel expenses low since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, greatly alleviating rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is often more challenging to encounter in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of connection to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a sizeable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.