Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Though this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic city, not only for its diverse housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a wide array of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and co-living arrangements. Local students can swiftly organize apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential rentals online, review available features, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to be close to major sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a stellar transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigation and inter-zone travel straightforward. I aimed to keep travel costs low since crossing zones can accumulate up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare schemes of each train operator. The high living expenses in central London are driven by its major attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural tapestry, showcasing an appealing variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London largely depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.