Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve uncovered various insights during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not merely for its broad range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a wealth of alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared accommodations. Local students can effortlessly arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible rentals online, complete with details on amenities and their closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for lodging, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London’s primary attractions are notable. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Access to necessary shops, including supermarkets and pharmacies, conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, offering a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students pursue a sense of familiarity with their native culture in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional fashion shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home in London, appreciate its wide array of accommodation choices, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.