Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear lengthy, I have gleaned various insights during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its wide range of living arrangements but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private housing offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, complete with details about amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city consists of six circular zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an impressive transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to travel and maneuver between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 each day. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made getting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structures of the individual train companies. The expense of living in Central London is heightened by its prominent attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed for us to share a room, leading to a significant reduction in rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, wishing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time during errands, particularly in exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich blend of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home culture within London. Southall, situated in West London, has a large South Asian population featuring Indian dining, grocery shops, and traditional outfit retailers. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of communal neighborhoods.
The optimal places to live in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s varied accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.