Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this timeframe may seem brief, I’ve absorbed a considerable amount of information. London pulsates with energy, not only due to its extensive array of housing choices but also its multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a myriad of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings feature a variety of selections, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local scholars can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key landmarks, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and transit between zones. I sought to reduce travel expenditures as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk for short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered the cost of commuting to university. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground region, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts major attractions, which contributes to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, greatly cutting down on rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be demanding. The city’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural framework, presenting a rich array of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music environment. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant quarter filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. In your hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city offers.