Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While this may seem like a brief stint, I’ve acquired various insights during this time. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned for its vast selection of housing alternatives and its multicultural populations. Students have an abundance of possibilities available. Both student residences and private housing offer choices that include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential living arrangements online, highlighting the amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an exemplary transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for straightforward navigation and travel among zones. I wanted to keep travel costs low since inter-zonal fares can escalate to £5.25 per day. I tended to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these providers differ according to distance and each train operator’s tariff structure. The major attractions in Central London add to the high cost of living. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university has helped us significantly lower rent expenses. I preferred communal student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to come by in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Popular grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural essence, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant district filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.