Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated the completion of nine months residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained various insights throughout my stay. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of selections available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective living spaces online, verify amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six overlapping zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplify travel across zones. To minimize transportation expenses, since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily, I decided to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate according to the distance and the pricing structure of each train service. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodations, greatly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential amenities such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, showcasing a vibrant array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students search for the comfort of their home country’s culture in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the centre of London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with diverse Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence, welcome the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, explore distinct cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.