Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem lengthy, I have garnered several insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its diverse housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices available right outside their doors. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to peruse potential living spaces online, complete with their amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to reside, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic groups are vital to its cultural identity, providing a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.