Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although it isn’t an extended period, I’ve gained substantial insights. London pulsates with life, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its local communities. Students enjoy numerous options readily available to them. Both university residences and private rentals provide an array of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their prospective living spaces online, complete with amenities and transit connections.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and movement across zones. I aspired to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commuting can reach up to £5.25 a day. Instead of utilizing a bus or tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services connect regions beyond the Underground network, extending into areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these networks depend on distance and the pricing system of each train operator. Central London showcases major attractions, resulting in higher living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we shared accommodation, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, an opportunity that would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and flourishing music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, offers a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend heavily on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace its diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.