Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not appear lengthy, I have gathered some perspectives during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its variety of living arrangements but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both university accommodations and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, alongside their amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably lessened our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse localities. Many international students seek the comfort of their home culture within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, revel in the diversity and richness of its housing choices, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.