Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this duration may seem short, I’ve accumulated some valuable observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, distinguished not only by its various housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of opportunities available to them. Both university accommodations and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential rentals online, evaluate the available amenities, and consider the distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on finding a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel and navigation between zones quite simple. Personally, I endeavored to minimize transportation expenses, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or tubes. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university much more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas that lie outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare system. The high living expenses in Central London are partly due to its major attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a fellow student at university significantly alleviated our rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, which might have been more difficult with private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Familiar grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like grocery shops and pharmacies saves time on tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a diverse array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, showcases a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The best districts in London for living will vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.