Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residency in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired several perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, boasting not just varied living arrangements but also engaging communities. Students possess a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring their prospective homes online, evaluating amenities, and gauging accessibility to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought 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 boasts a commendable transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys could amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk over short distances rather than take public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, accessing areas outside central London. Inter-zone travel fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare system. Central London is home to major attractions, which contributes to higher living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion enabled us to share a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies conserves time spent on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities constitute an integral aspect of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse locales. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian community, complete with Indian dining spots, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, serves as a vibrant area offering various Chinese eateries, retail shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The finest locales to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.