Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this timeframe may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its range of living arrangements but also by its eclectic communities. Students are presented with an array of choices. Both university-affiliated housing and private rentals come equipped with options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transit.
In my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, community centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses since cross-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside the central area. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The living expenses near Central London’s major attractions can be quite high. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a chance less probable with private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to important stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting various neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown located in the center of London’s West End features numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are influenced by personal interests and necessities. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.