Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of living in London. While this duration may appear brief, I’ve amassed various observations during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its wide array of housing choices but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an outstanding transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates straightforward navigation and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to split a room, thus significantly lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that’s often more difficult to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich tapestry of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their homelands in London. Southall in West London has a sizeable South Asian community, showcasing Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated 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 few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new place to live in London, embrace the city’s multitude of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this remarkable city.