Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have amassed some valuable observations. London pulsates with energy, not only due to its eclectic housing choices but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students find themselves with a plethora of alternatives. Options for student housing and private rentals include amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared rooms, private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students have the advantage of arranging apartment viewings easily, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, inspect facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London for easy access to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London offers an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating seamless movement across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I elected to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, the oyster card scheme has made commuting to university more wallet-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside of central London. The fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and the pricing structure of individual train companies. The high cost of living in central London is influenced by its numerous attractions. Fortunately, I enrolled at the university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which considerably lessened our rent burden. I preferred communal student living arrangements to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less prevalent in private rentals.
Being near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time during errands, especially in exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, accommodates a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the vibrant West End, serves as a bustling hub filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a sampling of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locales for living in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new abode in London, appreciate the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.