Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Though this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its wide array of housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students face a plethora of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, review amenities, and assess their distance from public transport.
In my quest for a place to call home, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and transit across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train provider. The high living costs in Central London arise from its prime attractions. Thankfully, going to university with a friend permitted us to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Popular chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for the comfort of their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic hub filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best places to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.