Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its variety of housing choices but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of selections available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom empower international students to browse potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a place to call home, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its prime attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a close friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, providing a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations within London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing offerings, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.