Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not appear extensive, I have gathered some valuable observations along the way. London is a vibrant city, not merely for its range of housing alternatives but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of selections available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, including featured amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to main attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones simple. I aimed to keep travel expenses low as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have enhanced the affordability of university commutes. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend access beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The living expenses in Central London are substantial due to the city’s prominent attractions. Fortunately, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would be more challenging to encounter in private properties.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time spent on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their native countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.