Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a long duration, I’ve accumulated several observations. London is an energetic city, not only due to its varied housing possibilities but also because of its multicultural populations. Students have a plethora of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse available accommodations online, along with amenities and proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, 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 transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in high living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a colleague enabled us to share a room, greatly lowering rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood is not easy. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their native country within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. While looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.