Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months living in London. While it may not seem like a long time, it has been quite revealing. London is a vibrant city, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its rich cultural diversity. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, review available features, and evaluate access to public transit.
In my search for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the vicinity of choice. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel between zones. Personally, I opted to reduce travel expenses as inter-zonal commuting can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I preferred walking shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance and the particular fare system of each train operator. Central London houses significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private residences.
Living near grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for the comforts of their homeland. Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively musical atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London hinge on individual tastes and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing selections, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.