Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, I’ve gained a considerable amount of experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, inspect amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to reside, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the train company’s pricing structure. The high living costs surrounding Central London’s main attractions can be a challenge. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly reduce our rental expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is trickier to find in private rentals.
Proximity 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 necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural makeup, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity akin to their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community filled with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is replete with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These highlight just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal tastes and requirements. When seeking a new abode in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation alternatives, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.