Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have now spent nine months living in London. While this may not seem like a lengthy time, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its varied housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students find a multitude of choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring potential lodgings online, reviewing amenities, and evaluating distances to public transport.
During my housing quest, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to curtail travel expenses since traversing between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Moreover, oyster card options have made university commutes less costly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central hub. The fares for these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train service. The presence of Central London’s major attractions contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent costs. I preferred attending intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most desirable areas in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.