Penned by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. Though it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained a lot of insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its communities. Students have a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their possible future homes online, assess amenities, and locate the nearest public transport options.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to popular landmarks, social areas, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to traverse and move between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since travelling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. Instead of relying on a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central part of London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the tariff structure of each rail operator. The renowned attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I shared accommodation with a friend from university, which helped us save significantly on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be tough. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, offering a variety of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of home within London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, with an array of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, features countless Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The most suitable living areas in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, dive into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.