Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months living in London. Although this might not be an extensive period, I have acquired several perspectives throughout this time. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its various housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange for apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, review available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to be near significant attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traveling and navigating between zones straightforward. Personally, I aimed to keep travel expenses low as inter-zone transport can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, substantially lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most desirable areas to live in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of housing options, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.