Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve acquired various observations. London stands out as a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its range of housing options but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students find themselves with a plethora of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing remotely, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my pursuit of accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I intended to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal transport can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, accessing zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high cost of living in Central London is attributed to its prominent attractions. Fortunately, I had a friend at university, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, an experience that would have been less likely through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies aids in managing errands efficiently, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a semblance of their home country’s culture in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. To locate a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.