Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of living in London. Though it may seem brief, I’ve gained some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant city, not only because of its wide range of housing options but also due to its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student accommodations and private housing provide various options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment tours, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view potential housing online, check amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
In my accommodation search, I aimed for a room in Central London for easy access to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six zones, with zones one and two ranking as the most central. London’s transportation framework, incorporating the underground, buses, and trains, enables effortless movement and travel between zones. To economize on travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily, I elected to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The costs of living in central London can be steep due to its attractions, but sharing a room with a friend lowered the rent considerably. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds, a blend that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more affordable choices. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London add depth to its cultural fabric, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional stores. Brixton, located in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse housing options, delve into its cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.