Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t a long duration, I’ve gathered various observations throughout my time here. London is an energetic city, renowned not just for its wide array of living arrangements but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students view prospective accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and consider accessibility to public transport.
In my pursuit of a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to prominent 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 transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel between zones effortless. I sought to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can accumulate to £5.25 on a daily basis. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have lowered commuting costs for university trips. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside central London. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, greatly diminishing our rent costs. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is a combination more elusive in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Choosing an area to live in is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London play a significant role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London largely depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in this city, embrace the diversity and richness of housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.