Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not solely for its extensive range of housing alternatives but also for its eclectic communities. Students are presented with numerous nearby options. Both student accommodations and private rentals present amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore available housing online, verify amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for a residence, I aimed to find a rental room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since traversing between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk for shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card choices have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses significant attractions, which elevates living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room, thus notably cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets, which could be more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of home within the city. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music environment. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, boasts a myriad of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivals. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London are contingent upon one’s interests and requirements. In the quest for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness among the city’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.