Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of living in London. Although it’s not a long duration, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a broad range of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. Students are presented with various alternatives, encompassing student residences and private housing, which feature ensuite and suite bathrooms, both shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily arrange viewings for apartments, while sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in virtually exploring potential accommodations, verifying amenities, and evaluating proximity to public transport.
In my pursuit of a living arrangement, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to major sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transport network, composed of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures straightforward navigation and travel among zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 a day for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend the reach beyond the subway network, allowing access to areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each train company. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, substantially lowering our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is less common in private accommodations.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic groups are a vital part of its cultural identity, creating a mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for elements of familiarity from their native countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery stores, and shops for traditional attire. Brixton, in South London, is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the vibrant West End of London, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a selection of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and necessities. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diverse array of accommodation possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.