Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not appear extensive, I have gathered several insights along the way. London is a vibrant city, not solely because of its wide range of housing options but also due to its multicultural communities. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, check facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted renting a room in Central London to be close to main attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel across zones straightforward. To minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal fares can exceed £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying based on the distance and the fare system of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly alleviated rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is trickier to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural fabric, offering a rich selection of varied neighborhoods. Many international students search for familiarity from their native countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a sizeable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-enriched neighborhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.