Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the point of living in London for nine months. While this may not be extensive, I have gained a few perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its various housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students find themselves with an array of choices right at their fingertips. Both dedicated student accommodation and private housing present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students have access to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential living spaces online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport routes.
During my search for living arrangements, my objective was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, vibrant social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport infrastructure, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between the zones. I intended to keep my travel expenses low since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. Consequently, I chose to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside the heart of London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London is known for its high costs due to its significant attractions. Fortunately, I shared a room with a friend from university, which helped substantially reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to encounter in private rentals.
Having grocery stores within easy reach was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies saves valuable time on tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, stands out as an energetic area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The most preferable locations to reside in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. When on the hunt for your new home in London, take advantage of its varied and rich accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.