Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have acquired substantial knowledge. London is an energetic city, not merely for its varied living arrangements but also for its communities. Students have a plethora of options available right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can swiftly schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transport connections.
During my hunt for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services span areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each rail provider. Central London features main attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to cohabit, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often difficult to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near indispensable stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their homeland. Southall, in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.