Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gleaned some valuable experiences throughout this duration. London is an energetic metropolis, recognized not only for its vast range of living arrangements but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student housing and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential housing online, reviewing amenities, and evaluating closeness to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel costs, as commuting between zones can amount to £5.25 per day. Instead of taking the bus or tube for short distances, I chose to walk. However, oyster card options have rendered commuting to the university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, thus significantly lowering rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is less common in private residences.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies facilitates smoother errands, especially during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood to reside in is quite a task. The ethnic communities within London play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.