Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive period, I’ve gathered various insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely due to its vast array of housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students find themselves with plenty of choices. Both student living quarters and private rentals offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can quickly arrange viewings for apartments, while international students may utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential homes online, review available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my hunt for a place to stay, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the tube, buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I wanted to cut down on travel expenses, as moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commutes to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach further than the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Ticket prices for these services vary according to distance and the pricing system of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies within proximity saves time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, creating a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s varied accommodation alternatives, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.