Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve acquired several observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only due to its range of housing options but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices close by. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, evaluate amenities, and verify closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social centers, 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 transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and commuting between zones. I wished to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made traveling to the university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fare rates for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the tariff structure of each train provider. Living in Central London is pricey due to significant attractions. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student residences to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, offering a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for the comforts of their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End serves as a bustling enclave with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The top locales to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrance of this incredible city.