Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic city, known not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private rentals provide a range of choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my search for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London offers an exceptional transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To reduce travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 a day, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university rides more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, accessing zones outside the central area. Fares for travel across zones on these services fluctuate depending on distance and individual train companies’ pricing structures. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private properties.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily tasks, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling area with countless Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.