Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gathered various observations throughout this time. London is an energetic metropolis, known for its numerous housing choices as well as its multicultural neighborhoods. There is an abundance of options for students. Both student residences and private rentals offer different types including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore potential housing online, including details about amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six circular zones, with the first and second zones representing the core. London boasts a superb public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to lower my commuting expenses since traveling between zones could cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have simplified university travel costs. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The main attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, a friend and I attended university together and decided to co-rent a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate housing, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is tougher to find in privately rented homes.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on chores, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London search for a sense of connection to their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, retail shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. While on the lookout for a new dwelling in London, relish the diversity and abundance of accommodation types, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city offers.