Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it may not appear to be an extensive period, I have gained significant insights. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its wide range of housing alternatives but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students are presented with multiple options. Both student residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and communal living arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently arrange to view apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible rentals online, including their features and distance from public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social gathering spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London possesses an exceptional transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for easy navigation across the city and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to stroll shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card selections have rendered university commutes more economical. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the central area. Prices for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in central London are influenced by its prominent attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly reduced our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to discover in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their homeland’s culture within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively musical ambiance. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are determined by your interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of housing choices, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.