Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this may seem brief, I’ve gathered some insights throughout this timeframe. London is an ever-evolving metropolis, characterized not only by a broad range of living arrangements but also by its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a wealth of options at their fingertips. Both university housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and co-living arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, including their features and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the core areas. London features a remarkable transport network, including the tube, buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel between zones. I was keen on reducing travel expenses since crossing zones could incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card schemes have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, covering zones beyond the city center. Travel fares between zones on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare system. The cost of living near Central London’s major attractions can be steep. Fortunately, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close 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. Having easy access to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are foundational to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighbourhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London features a prominent South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal districts to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and needs. When on the hunt for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.