Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though this time frame is relatively short, I’ve gathered a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis that presents an extensive array of housing choices and multicultural communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective homes online, examine facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for lodging, I aimed to secure a room in Central London for proximity to key attractions, social spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation around and between zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses as trips between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. Consequently, I chose to walk short stretches rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travels more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground’s bounds, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. The elevated living expenses in Central London are primarily due to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting diverse localities. Many international students look for a touch of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and thriving music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on a search for a new home in London, take advantage of the city’s varied housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.