Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe may appear brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its plethora of lodging possibilities but also by its multicultural populace. Students have a wide array of options to consider. Both university housing and private rentals include choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students have the advantage of easily scheduling apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate their accessibility to public transport.
As I searched for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, promoting seamless navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as commuting between zones could reach £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made trips to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure set by each train operator. The noteworthy attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, leading us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, as I wanted to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities form a vital aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiar elements from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter featuring an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few illustrations of vibrant community areas.
The most suitable neighborhoods to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new place to live in London, embrace the cultural diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.