Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While nine months might not appear substantial, I’ve gained some valuable experiences throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just for its varied housing choices but also for its multicultural neighborhoods. Students find themselves with plenty of options available. Both student residences and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential residences online, along with details about amenities and access to public transport.
While searching for a place to stay, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to be near key attractions, nightlife, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an impressive transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to travel and navigate between zones. Personally, I intended to lower travel expenses, since cross-zone travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilizing buses or the tube. Fortunately, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s coverage, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. The major sights in central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly cut down on rental costs. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and ages, a mix that is often harder to encounter in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for my lifestyle. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of distinct areas. Numerous international students look for familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community offering Indian dining, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and energy of this extraordinary city.