Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may appear brief, I’ve gleaned several observations in this period. London is a dynamic city, not only for its wide variety of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student accommodation and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in browsing potential homes online, reviewing amenities, and evaluating closeness to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near main attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which enables smooth navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Additionally, services like London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The high living expenses in Central London are counterbalanced by its prominent attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London search for a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a large South Asian community filled with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and needs. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.