Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, not solely for its multitude of living arrangements but also for its varied communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student housing and private rentals feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The transportation infrastructure in London, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I opted for walking short distances rather than using public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside central London. Pricing for these services fluctuates according to distance and the fare regulations of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributable to its major attractions. Fortunately, I was attending university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private properties.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural makeup, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comforts of their home nation in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
Determining the best locations to reside in London relies on personal preferences and requirements. While looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.