Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months living in London. While this may not be an extended time frame, I’ve acquired various perspectives along the way. London is an energetic metropolis, distinguished not only by its wide range of housing alternatives but also its multicultural communities. Students have plenty of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to review potential accommodations online, including their facilities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to find a room to rent in Central London for easy access to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 each day. I decided to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground coverage, reaching areas outside the city center. Fare prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for my lifestyle. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its challenges. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, enriching the diversity of its neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home country in London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to live in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. While on the hunt for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and vitality of this extraordinary city.