Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have gathered a wealth of experiences. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its multicultural neighborhoods. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both university housing and private rentals provide various options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment inspections, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, evaluate facilities, and examine proximity to public transit.
During my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room rental in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an exceptional transportation network, comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for effortless navigation and transit across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since journeys between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services differ according to distance and the fare system of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was vital for me. Popular grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with lower-cost alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errand-running, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of different neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for a connection to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, houses a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. While on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.