Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months residing in London. While it isn’t an extensive time frame, I have gathered several observations. London is an energetic city, not only due to its varied living options but also because of its lively communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both student accommodation and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring possible lodgings online, along with their amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to live, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near popular attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation throughout the city and movement between zones. I wished to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced university travel expenses. Plus, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, substantially decreasing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate housing to interact with fellow students from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.