Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of living in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered a few observations throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not only because of its wide-ranging housing selections but also due to its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, examine available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
While searching for a place to stay, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to keep travel expenses low, as costs for traveling between zones can hit £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs associated with Central London’s major attractions can be substantial. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student housing to interact with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a feat that would have been more challenging with private accommodations.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores, like supermarkets and pharmacies, saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for touches of familiarity from their home nations while in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian population with Indian restaurants, 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, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The finest places to live in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a residence in London, acknowledge the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural havens, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.