Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this timeframe might appear brief, I’ve accumulated some valuable knowledge during my stay. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its range of housing alternatives but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a wide array of selections. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, showcasing the facilities available and the distance to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to travel and navigate across zones. I intended to lower my travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance traveled and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London, hosting major attractions, comes with elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion allowed us to share accommodation, leading to a substantial decrease in rent. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings, wishing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and age ranges, less common in private properties.
Being near grocery shops was vital for me. Recognizable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough decision. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural makeup, creating a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their native countries within London. Southall, in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is popular for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a limited selection of community neighborhoods.
The best areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its accommodation choices, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.