By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. While this might not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient for me to gather several insightful experiences regarding this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its wide array of housing options but also for the multicultural communities that inhabit it. Students here enjoy a plethora of choices when it comes to living arrangements. From student residences to private housing, the selection spans ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and consider their distance from public transport options.
As I initiated my accommodation search, my priority was to secure a room in Central London. My goal was to reside near the city’s prominent attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the Imperial College campus. London comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s exceptional transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—simplifies navigation across zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones might set you back by as much as £5.25 daily, prompting me to walk short distances to minimize travel costs. For longer travels, the Oyster card provides economical fare options for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and train operators. Although living in Central London entails high living expenses, I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which meaningfully cut down our rent. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, an opportunity that private housing might not have offered.
Being close to grocery stores was another essential aspect for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical alternatives. Residing near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times, such as exam periods, as it saves time on errands.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural essence, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that echo the familiarity of their native countries. For example, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Conversely, Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of London’s culturally vibrant neighbourhoods.
Ultimately, the best area to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new residence or simply exploring the city, embrace the variety and depth of London’s accommodation options, immerse yourself in its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this extraordinary city presents.