Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not be a lengthy time frame, I have acquired several perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a plethora of living arrangements and varied communities. Students are offered an abundance of options. Both student residences and private lodgings feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can browse potential accommodations online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, along with details of their amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for a place to stay, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant sites, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London possesses a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I wanted to keep travel expenses down since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a companion enabled us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Being near basic shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time when running errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough decision. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse districts. Many international students seek to find elements of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, has a significant South Asian community that offers Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The finest places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.