Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months is a relatively short period, I’ve gained some insights along the way. London pulsates with energy, thanks not only to its varied housing options but also its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals feature a range of facilities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore their future homes online, along with the amenities available and their accessibility to public transport.
While hunting for accommodation, I sought a room to rent in Central London, aiming to be near major landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones representing the core. London’s transportation network is outstanding, with the underground (tube), buses, and trains facilitating easy movement across zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university much more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance and the fare policies of each train operating company. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in extremely high living expenses. Thankfully, I was attending university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred staying in intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds around the same age, a mixture that is more challenging to find through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living in proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood to reside in is a challenging choice. The ethnic communities of London form a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a rich tapestry of diverse neighbourhoods. Most international students in London yearn for the comforts of their home country within this city. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Situated in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a dynamic hub offering an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on your interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.