Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this time frame may seem brief, I have gained several perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its array of housing choices but also for its multicultural populace. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and separate rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings of apartments, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective lodgings online, complete with amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to lease a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, nightlife, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most centralized areas. London’s superior public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones easy. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, with fares fluctuating based on distance and the pricing strategies of train companies. The cost of living in Central London is high due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies nearby conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood is not easy. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a rich blend of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home nations in London. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of the West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best places to live in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.