Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it’s not a long duration, I’ve accumulated some valuable experiences during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its diverse living arrangements but also its multifaceted communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student housing and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to inspect possible accommodations online, detailing the amenities available and distance to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to popular attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured in six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to lower my travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high cost of living in Central London is influenced by its notable attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and substantially cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varying backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery store chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a difficult choice. London’s ethnic communities form a key part of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.