Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month mark of residing in London. While this might appear brief, I have gathered some valuable experiences throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned for its varied housing options and dynamic communities. Students have an array of alternatives available to them, from student accommodations to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, both shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while international students can leverage platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine potential living spaces online, review available facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, my objective was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling easy movement and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each rail operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly slashed rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on chores, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in presents a challenge. London’s ethnic enclaves are vital to its cultural diversity, providing a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for the comfort of their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The best places to live in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.