Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my stay in London. While it may seem like a brief period, I have gained a substantial amount of insight. London is a dynamic city, providing a wide array of housing types and lively neighborhoods. Students can choose from a multitude of options, including student housing and private residences such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students have the convenience of arranging apartment viewings easily, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations, review amenities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
During my search for a place to call home, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is partitioned into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation throughout the city. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk for shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London, with fares varying by distance and the ticketing structure of the train operator. The high demand for major attractions in Central London drives up living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, resulting in a considerable reduction in rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging with private rentals.
It was vital for me to live near grocery stores. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite challenging. The ethnic communities in London enhance its cultural diversity, presenting various neighborhood options. Many international students search for a sense of connection to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional shops. Brixton, found in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the vibrant West End of London, is an energetic area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of culturally rich neighborhoods.
Determining the best places to live in London largely depends on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of the city’s housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.