Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I have gained a wealth of experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its variety of housing options but also due to its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have abundant choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals offer a wide array of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, check facilities, and evaluate distances to public transportation.
In my search for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitate easy navigation across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, options for oyster cards have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Inter-zone travel fares vary based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London is home to major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is trickier to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Commonly visited supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic enclaves form a vital part of its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is notable for its vast South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the plethora and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.