Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I’ve acquired various insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its extensive range of housing opportunities but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be closer to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I wanted to curtail travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure set by each train company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I had a friend attending the same university, and we decided to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s harder to come by in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential retail outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam time.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. The ethnic communities in London play an essential role in its cultural makeup, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. A multitude of international students in London looks for a touch of home. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the available accommodation options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.