Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long span, I have gathered a few observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not just for its array of living arrangements but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students are presented with numerous options. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, highlighting amenities and access to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric rings, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for seamless commutes and transfers between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary by distance and each train company’s pricing scheme. The central area’s popular landmarks contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, having a friend to share a room while attending university greatly decreased our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Major supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s diverse communities are integral to its rich cultural fabric, presenting a wide range of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their homeland. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian presence, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a lively district filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal living locations in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.