Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that may appear brief, I have accumulated several observations throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its extensive selection of living arrangements but also by its multicultural communities. Students are afforded a wealth of options. Both student residences and private lodgings provide various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, review the available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The efficient transport system of London, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigating and traveling across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university significantly more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, branching out to zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare regulations of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London stem from its prominent attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to cohabit, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less common in private properties.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time during errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities of London are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich tapestry of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London boasts a well-known Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End, is an energetic locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and allure of this remarkable city.