Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of living in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered some observations. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its wide range of living arrangements but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a multitude of options available. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, complete with details on amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my hunt for a living space, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay near main attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to get around and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside of central London, with fares differing based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The high living costs in Central London stem from its main attractions. Fortunately, I was in university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a feat that would have been more difficult with private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps conserve time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown in London’s West End is a lively area packed with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal regions to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.