Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I have gleaned valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a variety of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their fingertips, encompassing student residences and private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual 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 prospective accommodations online, investigate amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for seamless navigation and transportation between zones. To reduce travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, which significantly lowered rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its living arrangements, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.