Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have absorbed a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a diverse range of living arrangements and lively neighborhoods. Students can choose from a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, examine facilities, and evaluate the closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I targeted a room rental in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a commendable public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since transitioning between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, servicing regions outside of central London. Fares for zonal travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London, being a hub for landmarks, often leads to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I had a university buddy, and we decided to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural mosaic, offering a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek aspects of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just some illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing offerings, explore cultural zones, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.