Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a variety of living arrangements and lively communities. Students can select from numerous options, such as student residences and private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while international students might utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, assess amenities, and identify public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across zones. To cut travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Oyster card options have helped make university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground framework, reaching broader areas. Fares fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of train companies. The high living expenses in Central London stem from its numerous attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to co-rent a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to mingle with peers from various backgrounds and comparable ages, which is more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, conserves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are a crucial part of its cultural identity, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home culture. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End offers Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The prime places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. While searching for new housing, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the city’s accessibility and vibrancy.