Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might appear brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge during this period. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its varied living options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of selections available to them. Both educational housing and private living spaces present various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to preview their future residences online, including the amenities provided and their proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to traverse and travel across zones. I was keen on minimizing my travel expenses as inter-zonal trips could amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones that lie beyond central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each rail operating company. The high living expenses in Central London stem from its prominent attractions. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and the same age group, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during finals.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections with their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the richness and diversity of the city’s living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.