Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has now been nine months since I began my life in London. Although it’s not a lengthy period, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have numerous opportunities right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review amenities, and discover nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for a suitable living arrangement, I aimed for accommodation in Central London to be near key attractions, vibrant social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an outstanding transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and connect between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel using these services vary by distance and the pricing scheme of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in higher living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and greatly reduce our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The proximity to necessary outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies can streamline errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of diverse districts. Many international students look for a connection to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. In the bustling heart of London’s West End, Chinatown boasts a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are dictated by personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the vibrancy and variety of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this exceptional city has to offer.