Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. While it may seem brief, I have absorbed a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only because of its varied living arrangements but also due to its vibrant communities. Students have numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private dwellings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for a place, I desired a room in Central London for easy access to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, provides a straightforward means of navigating and traveling across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas located outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The living expenses in Central London are elevated due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, as I aspired to meet fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a connection that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural identity, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian community with Indian dining spots, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples represent just a few of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.