Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have gained valuable perspectives throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its diverse housing choices but also by its multicultural neighborhoods. Students benefit from numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options remotely, evaluate the amenities present, and determine the closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for easy access to significant landmarks, vibrant social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an efficient transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel expenses as inter-zonal commuting could cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground, connecting areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare frameworks set by each train operator. Central London encompasses key attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we agreed to co-rent a room, which substantially lowered our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various cultural backgrounds and ages, a mix often challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves significant time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be quite difficult. London’s diverse ethnic groups play a key role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, has a large 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. At the center of London’s West End, Chinatown stands as a spirited area filled with countless Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.