By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned for its diverse living arrangements and multicultural environment. Students find themselves with a wealth of choices. Options for accommodation range from student housing to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible lodgings online, review amenities, and determine proximity to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I targeted renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two considered the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel and movement across zones. I aimed to keep transport expenses low, since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. Instead of relying on buses or the tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. However, the options available with oyster cards have made commuting to university far more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching regions outside central London. Fare rates for these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of respective train operators. The significant number of attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us save a considerable amount on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is less common in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Familiar supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are common, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite challenging. The ethnic communities within London play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a prominent South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively musical atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.