Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve gathered various insights during this timeframe. London is a dynamic metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide different choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, examine available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near prominent attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between the zones. I specifically aimed to cut travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have greatly lowered university commuting costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure set by each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents challenges. The city’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. A significant number of international students seek a touch of familiarity to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, has a considerable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, offers a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of communal neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.