Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, I’ve gleaned several observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing a variety of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. Students have access to many choices, ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing online, evaluate amenities, and consider their closeness to public transit.
During my search for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I preferred walking short distances to economize on travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. Options with Oyster cards have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and the fare structures of train companies. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, greatly lowering our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living 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. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s multicultural communities enhance its cultural landscape, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students search for a taste of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End features numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.