Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, recognized not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its rich communities. Students find themselves with numerous choices right at their fingertips. Options in student housing and private residences include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international scholars to explore potential living spaces online, encompassing amenities and transport connections.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend service beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations as they provided an opportunity to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The convenience of being near crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is invaluable, especially during examination periods when time is of the essence.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a spectrum of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a large South Asian community replete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of the various community neighborhoods available.
The best neighborhoods for living in London truly depend on individual interests and requirements. When searching for a new place to call home in London, take advantage of its diverse accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.