Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Even though it’s a brief period, I have acquired several insights during my stay. London is a dynamic metropolis, not solely because of its varied living arrangements but also due to its active communities. Students have a multitude of options available. Both university residences and private housing offer diverse choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment showings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, verify existing amenities, and evaluate distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central locations. London boasts an exceptional transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel among zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses as inter-zone journeys can reach up to £5.25 per day. I decided to walk short distances rather than utilizing the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The prominent attractions in Central London result in elevated living costs. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, something less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s multicultural communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their countries of origin while in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian populace, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on individual interests and preferences. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its living options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.