Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long period, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have numerous selections available to them. Both student accommodation and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential living spaces online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transport.
During my search for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk small distances rather than commuting via bus or tube. However, the oyster card options have made trips to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach regions beyond the Underground network, extending to areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The high living costs near Central London’s popular attractions can be daunting. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age ranges, a blend that’s more challenging 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. Having essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students search for traces of familiarity from their home nation within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s varied accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable metropolis.