Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone living in London. Although it may not appear extensive, I have gathered some valuable experiences in this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely due to its numerous housing options, but also for its varied communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to assess prospective lodgings online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transport.
During my hunt for suitable living arrangements, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to keep commuting costs low, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made journeys to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, serving zones farther from the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing system of each rail provider. The high living expenses in Central London, driven by its major attractions, are notable. Fortunately, I went to university with a close friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably decreased our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less accessible in private rentals.
Being close to supermarkets was essential for me. Popular grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students desire to find familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural events. These examples illustrate just a fraction of the vibrant community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London largely rely on personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, one should appreciate the city’s diversity and depth of accommodation choices, explore various cultural enclaves, and relish in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.