Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a considerable duration, I’ve gained substantial knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, distinguished not only by its diverse living accommodations but also by its multicultural communities. Students have a wealth of options available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate the nearest public transport options.
During my search for a place to live, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare schemes of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, contributing to higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and of similar age, a mix that is harder to find in private properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be challenging. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural diversity, offering a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comforts of their homeland. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivals. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the cultural diversity and richness of its accommodation options, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.