Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months living in London. Although this duration is not extensive, I have gathered valuable experiences along the way. London is a vibrant city, presenting a broad range of housing options and multicultural communities. Students are presented with a plethora of alternatives. Both student residences and private housing offer possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can explore platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine prospective accommodations online, review available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major sites, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel across zones seamless. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, hence I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commutes to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside central London, with pricing fluctuating based on distance and train operator fare systems. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend during our university studies allowed us to significantly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate accommodations to meet students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend less attainable through private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is quite perplexing. The city’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural essence, offering a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their native countries in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, take in the diversity and abundance of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.