Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently celebrated my nine-month anniversary of living in London. While not an extensive timeframe, I have accumulated some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis characterized not only by its vast selection of housing alternatives but also by its multicultural populations. Students are presented with numerous options. Both shared student accommodations and private housing offer a variety of choices, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to discover their upcoming living spaces online, examine the amenities, and assess their access to public transportation.
During my housing search, I intended to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, which encompasses the underground, buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize commuting expenses, as travel between zones can reach £5.25 each day, which led me to take short walks instead of using public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living expenses near major attractions in Central London can be daunting. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly cut down on rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more difficult with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time, particularly during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students seek comforts reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, in the bustling West End of London, offers a dynamic environment with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for residing in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When searching for new living arrangements in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and zest of this remarkable city.