Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I’ve gathered several observations along the way. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only for its variety of housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present numerous alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective lodgings online, review available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transit system, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I wanted to keep travel expenses low since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short routes instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, connecting areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ according to distance and the fare system of each train provider. The main attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly minimizing our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best places to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the ease and excitement of this remarkable city.