Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have absorbed a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its myriad housing options but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have an array of choices available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, check facilities, and locate nearby public transport options.
During my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major sights, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and inter-zone travel. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. Consequently, I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is pricey due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university accompanied by a friend, and we resolved to share a room, significantly reducing our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing, anticipating meeting peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups — a combination harder to come by in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was imperative for me. Common chain supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Having essential stores such as grocery shops and pharmacies nearby saves time on chores, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural diversity, creating a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a connection with their home nations. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.