Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my ninth month of residing in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I have acquired some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its various housing opportunities but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student housing and private rentals feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including the amenities provided and their accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for proximity to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation system is remarkable, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transportation can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I preferred walking shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are due to its major attractions. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, substantially lowering rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age range, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich mix of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are just a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary depending on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.