Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, verify amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my endeavor to find a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to be close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my transportation expenses since inter-zonal journeys can tally up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Thankfully, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into regions beyond the Underground network, reaching out to zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the particular fare framework of each train operator. Living expenses in Central London are elevated due to the plethora of major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we shared a room, which considerably lessened our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery outlets was vital for me. Major supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural mosaic, producing a vibrant variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire the comfort of their home culture. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a dynamic area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its housing selections, discover cultural enclaves, and take pleasure in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.