Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months residing in London. While this is not a lengthy time frame, I’ve gained some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its range of housing selections but also because of its multicultural communities. Students find themselves with an abundance of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, review facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my quest for acommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. London offers an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling smooth navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize traveling expenses as inter-zonal travel could cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of individual train operators. Central London teems with major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room and significantly decrease our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student living quarters, aiming to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds, a mix that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery outlets was essential for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam stress.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural environment, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London gravitate towards the comfort of cultural familiarity from their home nations. Southall, located in West London, houses a significant South Asian community complete with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in the bustling West End of London, is a lively district teeming with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best living areas in London largely depend on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on your quest for a new home in London, take in the diversity and vibrancy of its accommodation alternatives, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.