Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though this duration may not seem extensive, I have gained some valuable perspectives along the way. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a plethora of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of options, ranging from university accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate possible lodgings, their features, and accessibility to public transportation online.
In my quest for a residence, I targeted renting a room in Central London to be near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which aids in seamless commuting and movement across zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I preferred to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London, with fares fluctuating based on distance and fare structures of individual train companies. The high living expenses in Central London stem from its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a challenging choice. London’s multicultural communities are integral to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of different neighborhoods. Many international students hunt for the familiarity of their native countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale with a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the multitude and richness of its accommodation selections, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.