Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While that’s not an extensive period, I’ve gathered some insights. London is an energetic metropolis, not only because of its varied living options but also due to its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of selections, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, along with the amenities available and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room to rent in Central London to stay near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a robust transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can reach up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more economical. Also, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting areas outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure set by each train operating company. The expense of living in Central London is elevated due to its main attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix that is harder to find in private housing.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be challenging. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, boasting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples represent just a few of the community neighborhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. While seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of its accommodation options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.