Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired several observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to look at their future living spaces online, showcasing amenities and access to public transport.
In my search for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk brief distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, covering zones outside Central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these routes vary according to distance and the fare structure implemented by each train operator. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent expenses. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and of a similar age group, a combination harder to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of unique neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and pulsating music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The best regions to live in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When exploring a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation offerings, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.