Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gathered several revelations during my time here. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its vast housing alternatives but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have abundant options available to them. Both campus housing and private rentals present various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my hunt for a living space, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I wanted to minimize travel expenditures, as crossing zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network to outer zones, with fares varying based on distance and the pricing structures of train companies. The prominent attractions in Central London play a role in escalating living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to split a room, thereby greatly reducing rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural richness, presenting a varied mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home countries. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best areas to live in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.