Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I have gained some insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living options but also for its communities. Students can discover numerous choices in the vicinity. Both student housing and private rentals present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their future residences online, showcasing amenities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room to rent in Central London to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, options for oyster cards have reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services are available to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operating company. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in higher living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we chose to share accommodation, greatly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling hub featuring Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To locate a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.