Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem lengthy, I have gained substantial insight. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, complete with details about amenities and their access to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London’s transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transport can soar up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. However, options with oyster cards have made university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into regions outside the central city. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare framework of each train operating company. Central London boasts major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age group, a mix 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; more budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.