Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t a long duration, I’ve gained some knowledge. London is a vibrant city, not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse prospective accommodations online, including the facilities provided and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement and travel among zones. I intended to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal fares can soar up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground realm, connecting to areas outside of central London. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the exact fare structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably lowering rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age cohorts, a blend that is harder to find in privately owned properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies in close proximity saves time on chores, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London pursue the comfort of their home country. Southall in West London houses a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new place to live in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.