Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of living in London. Although this is not a lengthy duration, I’ve gained some perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Both student residences and private rentals offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, including details about amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a remarkable transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplify navigation and travel across zones. I sought to keep travel expenses low, since inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London is home to significant attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, greatly reducing rent expenses. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own difficulties. London’s diverse ethnic communities are essential to its cultural fabric, providing a vast selection of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the center of London’s West End, is a lively district filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best areas to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While looking for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.