Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although it isn’t a lengthy duration, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its vast selection of living arrangements but also thanks to its varied communities. Students have numerous options available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, showcasing the facilities and their closeness to public transport.
In my search for a place to reside, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near main attractions, lively social spots, and Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to move around and transition across zones. To economize on transport expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to areas outside of central London. Fare costs for inter-zone travel differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lessened our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood is not straightforward. London’s ethnic communities form an essential aspect of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for the warmth of familiar surroundings from their native countries in London. 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 famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its living options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.