Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its diverse living accommodations but also its varied communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student housing and private apartments provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange viewing appointments for apartments, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options virtually, including amenities and their closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for a living arrangement, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys could reach up to £5.25 each day. Instead of opting for a bus or tube, I decided to walk short distances. However, options such as oyster cards have made university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside Central London. Fare rates for travel between zones on these services depend on distance and the pricing system of each train operator. Central London is home to major sites, which results in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, allowing us to save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, which is a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. In the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is a lively enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, retail stores, and cultural festivals. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation possibilities, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.