Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy span, I have acquired some perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, noted not only for its wide-ranging housing selections but also for its multifaceted communities. Students enjoy an abundance of alternatives. Both student residences and private housing present features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, review facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
While I was hunting for accommodation, I targeted a room situated in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two representing the most central locations. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies commuting and traversing between zones. I strived to keep travel expenses low since inter-zonal fares can be as high as £5.25 per day. Consequently, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside the central city. Fares for inter-zone travels differ based on distance and each train company’s fare policy. The high living expenses in Central London are driven by its prominent attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to encounter in private rentals.
For me, residing near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket choices comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside less expensive alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on shopping, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be challenging. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural fabric, providing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London boasts a renowned Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music culture. Chinatown, located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and necessities. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the multitude and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.