Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired a few valuable observations throughout this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a myriad of lodging options and multicultural neighborhoods. Students are offered a plethora of alternatives. Both student residences and private rentals feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment tours, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, verify amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near principal attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London’s superb transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, aids in seamless navigation and commuting across zones. Personally, I aimed to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving regions outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to many significant attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, thus considerably lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less frequently found in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps streamline errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnically diverse communities are key to its cultural essence, offering a broad spectrum of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a connection to their home cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian populace featuring Indian dining options, grocery shops, and clothing retailers. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of vibrant neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When exploring new housing in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.