Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a dynamic city, renowned not only for its varied housing selections but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a myriad of options readily available. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
During my search for a place to reside, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across the city and traveling between zones. Personally, I aimed to save on travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, stretching into zones outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare policies of each train provider. The key attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to come by in private rentals.
Being situated near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s cultural communities are vital to its societal framework, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for the comfort of home in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a colorful enclave filled with numerous Chinese dining venues, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The prime locations for residing in London vary based on personal tastes and requirements. When exploring for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.