Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my residence in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve acquired several insights throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not just due to its various housing alternatives but also because of its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a wealth of options available. Both student housing and private rentals feature choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, evaluate available amenities, and judge proximity to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London offers an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. Personally, I aimed to lower my travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than opt for buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground’s coverage, extending into outlying areas. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London stem from its prominent attractions. Luckily, sharing accommodations with a friend while attending university significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and ages, a combination that’s often challenging to find in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in shaping its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students look for a connection to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for housing in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.