Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Although this is not a lengthy period, I have gathered some perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, notable not only for its various housing choices but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a wide range of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to virtually tour their potential homes, the facilities on offer, and their closeness to public transport.
In my hunt for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into outer zones. Ticket prices for these services differ according to distance and the pricing policies of each rail company. The high living costs in central London are attributed to its main attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with lower-cost alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops, like supermarkets and pharmacies, nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of diverse areas. Numerous international students look for a taste of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community hubs.
The ideal locations for living in London will vary based on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to reside in London, embrace the city’s varied housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.