Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not be long, I have acquired several insights. London is an energetic city, characterized not just by its range of housing selections but also by its multicultural communities. Students benefit from a plethora of choices. Both student residences and private settings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore potential living options online, including the facilities available and closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I focused on a room in Central London to stay near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the heart of it all. London features an outstanding transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones easy. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day, so I decided to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending to regions outside of central London. The fares for these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to considerably lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a demographic mix that’s more difficult to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural landscape, providing a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their home cultures. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the central West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for new housing in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its accommodation offerings, discover cultural neighborhoods, and enjoy the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.