Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I have acquired some insights. London is a dynamic city, recognized not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its diverse communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide selections like ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their prospective living spaces online, complete with details about amenities and transport connections.
In my quest for a place to stay, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for traveling across zones fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London features major attractions, leading to higher living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with lower-cost options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a range of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End showcases numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.