Penned by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed my nine-month journey of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy period, I’ve accumulated various observations throughout my time here. London is a vibrant city, notable not only for its wide array of accommodation choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange viewings of apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, including their features and access to public transport.
While searching for a place to stay, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, entertainment venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel and navigation between zones. Personally, I aimed to lower travel expenditures, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare system. The major attractions in Central London drive up living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly decreasing rent expenses. I preferred student accommodations with people from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s harder to find in private properties.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in presents a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural fabric, creating a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comforts of their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, take advantage of the city’s multitude of accommodation options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.