Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of my stay in London. Although it’s a relatively brief period, I’ve acquired a significant amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its extensive range of living arrangements but also by its multicultural neighborhoods. There are abundant options available for students. Both student residences and private rentals provide a variety of selections including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can swiftly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to preview potential rentals online, explore amenities, and evaluate their access to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to be near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London features a superb transit system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of utilizing a bus or tube for short distances, I chose to walk. However, oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zone. Prices for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the specific fare structures of train providers. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s often more challenging to find in private accommodations.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are key components of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek out the comfort of home country familiarity while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of communal neighborhoods.
The most suitable districts for living in London rely on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.