Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this may not seem like a long time, I’ve acquired various insights throughout this period. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated not only for its abundant housing options but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a wide array of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, including their features and closeness to public transport.
While looking for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near prominent landmarks, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central areas. London’s transport network, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward travel and navigation between zones. I aimed to minimize transport expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network. Fares for traveling between zones on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us considerably lower our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses challenges. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural diversity, creating an array of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian presence featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the buzzing West End, is a vibrant district filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and necessities. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and abundance of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the accessibility and thrill this extraordinary city offers.