Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its array of housing options but also because of its multicultural neighborhoods. Students enjoy a vast range of alternatives. Both university residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and sole occupancy rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, check available facilities, and evaluate access to public transportation.
During my hunt for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 per day, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The significant tourist attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, having a friend at university permitted us to share a room, substantially cutting down on rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being close to supermarkets was vital for me. Prominent grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time during chores, especially around exam time.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students look for the comfort of their homeland while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the middle of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The finest neighborhoods to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.