Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of my stay in London. Though it might not seem like a significant period, I have gained extensive insights. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a broad spectrum of living arrangements and multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options right at their fingertips, ranging from student residences to private rentals that include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and shared housing. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can access websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective rentals online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport options.
In my endeavor to find accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones considered the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to move around and connect between zones. I aimed to minimize travel costs, given that inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. The Oyster card features have made commuting for university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground scope, connecting outlying regions to central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of different train operators. The expense of living in Central London is propelled by its significant attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which considerably lowered our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a scenario that might have been less achievable in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during busy exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities form a key part of its cultural identity, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland through their surroundings in London. Southall, situated in West London, features a prominent South Asian community with various Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the West End of London showcases an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a selection of vibrant community areas.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London vary according to personal tastes and requirements. During your quest for a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and abundance of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.