Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated a nine-month milestone in my journey living in London. Although this timeframe may seem brief, I’ve gained various insights throughout my experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not only for its array of housing options but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students find themselves with plentiful selections available. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and room shares. Local students can conveniently book viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, complete with details on amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as crossing between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. Instead of taking the bus or tube for short distances, I chose to walk. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services operate outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Ticket prices for these services depend on distance and the fare policies of the respective train companies. Central London houses key attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend from university, which significantly lowered our rent payments. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix less prevalent in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for my needs. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a prominent South Asian community, abundant with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with diverse Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent only a few examples of community-oriented areas.
The ideal neighborhoods in London ultimately depend on personal preferences and requirements. In the process of finding a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation choices, explore various cultural districts, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.