Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained a significant amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, recognized not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students have a multitude of options available right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodging provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible living spaces online, review amenities, and locate the nearest public transportation routes.
In my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 each day. I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university much more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services span areas beyond the Underground network, reaching into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone trips vary depending on distance and each train company’s pricing system. Central London hosts numerous major attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Fortunately, I was able to attend university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly alleviated our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing in hopes of connecting with students from various backgrounds and a similar age range, a mix that is often harder to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errand-running, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be challenging. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a sense of familiarity with their home culture. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent just a few examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. While seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.