Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I achieved the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I have accumulated several observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also thanks to its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer various options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can swiftly arrange apartment tours, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential rentals online, examine available amenities, and evaluate their proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to major sights, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ according to distance and the fare structures of individual train companies. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural mix, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students seek familiarity with their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.