Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe may not seem extensive, I have gained several reflections. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering not only a variety of living arrangements but also its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of options to choose from. Both student residences and private housing offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single occupancy rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse possible residences online, check amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain near primary attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies getting around and traveling between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 a day, thus I chose to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made traveling to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high living costs in Central London are attributable to its numerous attractions. Luckily, as I attended university with a friend, we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate housing, anticipating meeting students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mixture that is often less common in private rentals.
Living close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural landscape, showcasing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in the city seek the comfort of their native culture. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The best areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.