Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered a few perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, recognized not only for its array of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students benefit from a vast selection. Both student residences and private accommodations offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, assess facilities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to maintain proximity to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city features a reliable transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, leading to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lessened our rent payments. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best places to live in London are influenced by personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.