Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive timeframe, I’ve accumulated some perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, not just for its array of housing options but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to check potential rentals online, including their facilities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and move between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of boarding the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, serving areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s pricing. The prime attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which considerably lowered rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, something that would have been trickier through private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for connections to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in London’s West End, is a dynamic quarter with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are but a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.