Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. While it might not sound extensive, I have gained considerable knowledge throughout this period. London is a vibrant city, not only because of its variety of housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have numerous choices right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing present a range of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, check amenities, and evaluate distance from public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can amount to as much as £5.25 per day for inter-zonal travel, I decided to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Choosing a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their native country in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.