Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing an extensive array of living arrangements and multifaceted communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them, ranging from student residences to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared spaces, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while those from abroad can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to survey potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near primary attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the central zones. The city features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making inter-zonal travel simple. To minimize travel expenses, as journeys between zones can tally up to £5.25 each day, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground to outer zones, with ticket prices differing according to distance and the pricing policies of train operators. The prime attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university significantly alleviated our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age brackets, a mix that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The closeness to vital shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural diversity, showcasing a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international students look for similarities to their home countries in London. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian population with Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is an energetic area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodations in London, celebrate the diversity and depth of available options, investigate cultural hubs, and revel in the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.