Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem long, I have gained some insights. London is dynamic, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its communities. Students have numerous options readily available. Both student residences and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is classified into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high living expenses near Central London’s attractions can be daunting. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, drastically lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is often scarce in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of different neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, boasting Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, presents a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the variety and vibrancy of its accommodation choices, discover cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.