Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t a long duration, I’ve gathered several observations during my stay. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing alternatives and vibrant neighborhoods. Students can find countless choices right at their doorstep, such as student dorms and private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible living arrangements online, along with their amenities and accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an impressive public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make it simple to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as traveling across different zones can cost up to £5.25 a day, so I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying depending on distance and train company fare structures. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is quite challenging. The city’s multicultural communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, offering a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new place to live in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of the city’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.