Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not seem like an extensive period, I have absorbed a great deal. London is a bustling metropolis, not solely for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous options at their disposal. Both student residences and private rentals provide multiple choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodging online, check the amenities available, and assess their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London for proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel among zones. I sought to cut my travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. However, the oyster card options have considerably lowered commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach regions beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the city center. Fares for zone-crossing travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structures of various train operators. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly lessened our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing, anticipating meeting peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic groups play a vital role in its cultural framework, creating a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home country’s vibe within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for residing in London are contingent on personal tastes and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its residence choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.