Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I may not have spent a long time here, but I’ve gathered several observations. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not just by a variety of living arrangements but also by its energetic communities. Students have a wide array of options available. Both university accommodation and private housing provide different selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore potential homes online, review facilities, and evaluate distance to public transit.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel among zones. I aimed to cut travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize bus or tube services. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, servicing regions outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The costs of living in Central London are high due to the numerous attractions. Luckily, sharing accommodation with a friend during university allowed us to split the rent, leading to significant savings. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Close access to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse localities. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, at the center of London’s West End, is a lively enclave filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centered neighborhoods.
The optimal living areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to stay in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the accessibility and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.