Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently hit the nine-month milestone of my time living in London. While it may not be a long duration, I have gathered some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its various housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students have a wide array of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily set up viewings for apartments, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students check out potential places online, along with details about amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to call home, I looked to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to move around and between zones. I aimed to keep my travel expenses low since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly lowered university commute expenses. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these trains depend on distance and the fare system used by each train operator. The costs of living in Central London are undoubtedly high due to its famous attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly decreased rental expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, as I hoped to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a combination that is more difficult to find in private properties.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, found in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few instances of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, revel in the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.